India News – June 1-15, 2024

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Bengaluru, May 31 (IANS) The Special Investigation Team (SIT), probing the sexual abuse allegations against JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna, will grill the

leader on Friday.

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) arrested Prajwal from Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport soon after he arrived from Munich, Germany by Lufthansa flight in the wee hours, and handed him over to the SIT probing the case.

Prajwal's mobile phone and baggage have been seized. The

New Delhi, May 30 (IANS) The campaigning for the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha elections came to a close on Thursday as leaders from the prominent political parties heightened their efforts with rallies till the last minute.

On June 1, polling is scheduled to take place in 57 parliamentary constituencies spanning seven states and the Union Territory of Chandigarh to decide the fates of 904 candidates in the fray.

The electoral battleground in the final phase will see 13 seats going to the polls in both Uttar Pradesh

Praggnanandhaa’s first win over Carlsen in classical chess sends netizens into frenzy

New Delhi, May 30 (IANS) After Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa defeated world No. 1 GM Magnus Carlsen for the first time in a classical game during round three of the 2024 Norway Chess tournament in Stavanger, netizens went into a frenzy over the Indian prodigy's significant

achievement.

The 18-year-old Indian Grandmaster beat Carlsen on his home turf on white pieces, emerging as the sole leader with 5.5 points.

Carlsen and Praggnanandhaa had drawn their previous three encounters in this format, two of which in the 2023 World Cup final. On Wednesday night, the 18-yearold Indian grandmaster punished Carlsen's risky play. Carlsen never castled and eventually lost as his king couldn't find a safe haven.

India ‘A’ to face Australia ‘A’ ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

mobile phone and his voice samples will be sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL). The accused will first be taken to Bowring Hospital in Bengaluru for medical tests, and after that, the team, headed by SIT Chief B.K. Singh, will question him.

Afterward, the SIT is likely to take

case.

Despite the acquittal, Ram Rahim, who is currently lodged at Sunaria Jail in Haryana’s Rohtak, will remain in prison as he also stands convicted in other cases of rape and murder.

A bench comprising Justices Sureshwar Thakur and Lalit Batra pronounced the judgement on appeals moved by Ram Rahim and others who were convicted by a CBI court in Panchkula in 2021.

The others are Avtar Singh, Jasbir Singh, Sabdil Singh, and Krishan Lal, all of whom were awarded life sentences along with the selfstyled godman.

Former dera manager Ranjit Singh was shot by four assailants on July 10, 2002, at Khanpur Kolian village in Haryana's Kurukshetra.

In 2021, a special CBI court found Ram Rahim and others guilty of

Melbourne, May 28 (IANS) Cricket Australia on Tuesday announced the match days and venues of India A touring Australia this summer.

Two four-day matches between

Australia A and India A and a three-day internal match comprising players from the Indian Test squad and India A will precede the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series as the top-ranked Test nations prepare for their hugely anticipated showdown. The lead-up games mean Australia will host the biggest Indian summer ever with the hugely supported Indian men’s

Rajkot fire claims 35 lives, DNA tests to identify victims

May 26 (IANS) The fire at Gamezone amusement park in

on May 25 resulted in the loss of 35 lives, leaving victims charred beyond recognition that

identification is possible only through DNA testing, officials shared.

According to reports, DNA samples were dispatched to Gandhinagar via air ambulance at 4:30 a.m. The results of these tests are expected within 48 hours. So far, 25 DNA samples have been sent, while the relatives of two victims are yet to arrive.

Chandigarh, May 28 (IANS) The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday acquitted Dera Sacha Sauda’s controversial self-styled godman, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, in the Ranjit Singh murder

Rajkot,

Rajkot

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Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine As Light’ has to settle for a Grand Prix at Cannes

The Third Eye: A border state that needs to be secured Australia prepares to help Papua New Guinea after deadly landslide Queensland sign Winfield-Hill for WNCL season

Lok Sabha polls: Last phase of campaigning ends, all eyes on June 1 voting

Continued from Page 1

and Punjab, followed by West Bengal (9), Bihar (8), Odisha (6), Himachal Pradesh (4), Jharkhand (3), and the lone Lok Sabha seat in Chandigarh.

Also, elections for 42 Assembly seats in Odisha are slated to take place on Saturday.

The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4.

On the final day of campaigning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a rally in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, while Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conducted rallies across various locations in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to bolster support for the BJP candidates.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi rallied in support of the party candidate in Balasore, Odisha, and subsequently engaged with the farmers at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar in Punjab.

Party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra conducted a roadshow in Solan, Himachal Pradesh.

Leaders from both the BJP and the INDIA bloc have spared no effort in their campaigns to win over the voters.

The BJP-led NDA is aiming for a historic third consecutive term, while the Opposition INDIA bloc is striving to overturn its electoral setbacks of the past decade.

In addition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi contesting from Varanasi, other notable BJP candidates for the final phase include Union Minister Anurag Thakur from Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, Ravi Shankar Prasad from Patna Sahib, Bihar, and Kangana Ranaut from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

Representing the Congress are Manish Tewari from Chandigarh, Vikramaditya Singh from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, and Ajay Rai from Varanasi, among others. Mamata Banerjee's nephew and Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee's fate will also be sealed on June 1. He is contesting from Diamond Harbour.

Self-styled godman

Full list of constituencies going to the polls in Phase 7:

Bihar: Nalanda, Patna Sahib, Pataliputra, Arrah, Buxar , Sasaram, Karakat and Jahanabad

Himachal Pradesh: Kangra, Mandi, Hamirpur and Shimla

Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi, Maharajganj, Gorakhpur, Kushinagar, Deoria, Bansgaon, Ghosi, Ghazipur , Ballia, Salempur , Chandauli, Mirzapur, and Robertsganj

Punjab: Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Khadoor Sahib, Jalandhar (SC), Hoshiarpur (SC), Anandpur Sahib, Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib (SC), Faridkot (SC), Firozpur, Bathinda, Sangrur, and Patiala

Odisha: Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Bhadrak Jajpur, Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur

West Bengal: Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jaynagar, Mathurapur, Diamond Harbour, Jadavpur, Kolkata Dakshin, and Kolkata

Uttar

Jharkhand: Godda, Dumka, and Rajmahal

Chandigarh

Ram Rahim, four others acquitted in 2002 murder case

Continued from Page 1

the murder and sentenced them to life imprisonment.

It was suspected that Ranjit Singh was murdered because of his alleged role in circulating a letter that narrated how the sect head

was sexually exploiting women at the dera headquartered in Sirsa.

Sirsa-based journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati later used the same letter in a news report. He was killed soon after the report was published.

Ram Rahim was also convicted on the charges of murdering the journalist. Admitting his appeal in December 2021, the high court had stayed the recovery of 50 per cent fine during the pendency of the appeal.

Seven newborns die in Delhi hospital fire

New Delhi, May 26 (IANS) Seven newly born babies died after a fire broke out in a baby care centre in Delhi’s Shahdara, police said on Sunday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara) Surendra Chaudhary

said that on Saturday at around 11:30 p.m. a police control room (PCR) call regarding a fire at Baby Care NewBorn Hospital was received at Vivek Vihar police station, following which a police team rushed to the spot.

Upon reaching the spot, the fire was found in the hospital and its adjacent building.

“In the hospital, there were 12 newborn babies admitted and one was already dead before the fire incident. All the 12 newborn babies were rescued from the hospital with the help of other people and shifted to East Delhi Advance NICU Hospital, for

Praggnanandhaa’s first win over Carlsen in classical chess sends netizens into frenzy

Continued from Page 1

Following Pragg's win over world no 1 Norwegian, social media was flooded with congratulatory messages.

"Latest global sensation from India!," a fan wrote on X. "Waking up to this mind blowing good news. #Praggnanandhaa, India’s 18-year-old chess prodigy, managed to defeat World No 1 #MagnusCarlsen for the first time in a classical game," another user added.

"This win is special indeed, defeating Carlsen in his home is no mean feat," a fan posted on X.

"Here’s the one who is making India proud. He is a hero oh no he is a champion!

Many congratulations to Praggnanandhaa! Here’s a game he played against Magnus Carlsen and won. @rpraggnachess thank you," an X post read.

"R Praggnanandhaa you beauty. We surely have the next Vishwanathan Anand in the making," another user posted.

Rajkot fire claims 35 lives, DNA tests to identify victims

Continued from Page 1

According to sources, some relatives are travelling from Junagadh, and no immediate family member is present for one individual who came from abroad.

Sixteen bodies are currently in cold storage at AIIMS, and 11 others are at the Civil Hospital.

“Over 27 bodies have been transported to Rajkot Hospital, where DNA samples will be collected before conducting post-mortem examinations.

The Civil Hospital in Rajkot is overwhelmed with the number of deceased.

DNA samples from missing family

members will also be collected to aid identification. It has been reported that most of the victims are from Gondal, with 31 families still searching for their missing children.

More than 10 police teams are involved in documenting the incident, and the death toll may rise above 50,” sources said.

“Families of the injured are heartbroken and in mourning, unable to see their loved ones one last time due to the condition of the bodies,” sources from Rajkot added.

The government has issued orders for an investigation and action against those responsible.

India ‘A’ to face Australia ‘A’ ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Continued from Page 1

treatment,” said the DCP.

The DCP said that fire tenders also reached the spot and doused the flames.

Delhi Fire Service (DFS) Chief Atul Garg said that seven children were declared dead at the hospital while five newly born babies are undergoing treatment.

“All 7 dead bodies have been further shifted to GTB Hospital for postmortem. Appropriate legal action is being taken against the owner of the hospital namely Naveen Kichi, a resident of Bhairon Enclave, Paschim Vihar, Delhi,” said the DCP.

Karnataka: SIT to grill sexual abuse case prime accused Prajwal Revanna

him to his residence and office in

Hassan, where the sexual assaults and multiple alleged rapes were committed, and conduct a spot mahajar (investigating the crime scene and working out the sequence of events with the accused). After bringing Prajwal back from Hassan, he will be produced before the court, SIT sources said. Meanwhile, a team of advocates

has arrived to meet Prajwal.

The grandson of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, Prajwal, had left the country on April 26 after the alleged sex video tapes featuring him surfaced. The authorities had issued an arrest warrant, a lookout notice and a Blue Corner notice against him.

and women’s teams playing in Australia over 69 days from first ball to last and in eight different venues Australia-wide.

The Australia A v India A matches will be played at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay (Oct 31Nov 3) and the MCG (Nov 7-10) respectively, with the Indian internal match to take place at the WACA Ground (Nov 15-17) with players pushing their case for selection ahead of the West Test.

The Australian women’s team will take on India in three ODI’s in December as the rivalry between the world champion Australians and the rapidly improving India intensifies.

Peter Roach, CA Head of Cricket Operations and Scheduling said: “The 2024-25 summer is highlighted by the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, the first five-Test series between the two giants in more than 30 years. To have that running simultaneously with the women’s ODIs and preceded by two significant Australia A v India A matches will be terrific for our fans.

“Hosting those A matches at the upgraded Great Barrier Reef Arena and the MCG give these A

matches significant status and will provide great opportunities to players from both sides to put up their hand for selection.”

India Tours of Australia 2024 schedule:

Men’s Australia A v India A Series

October 31- November 3, 2024: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay November 7-November 10, 2024: MCG, Melbourne

India Men’s Internal Game

November 15-November 17: WACA Ground, Perth

Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series

November 22-26, 2024: Perth Stadium, Perth

December 6-10, 2024: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (D/N)

December 14-18, 2024: The Gabba, Brisbane

December 26-30, 2024: MCG, Melbourne

January 3-7, 2025: SCG, Sydney

CommBank Women's ODI SeriesAustralia v India

December 5, 2024: Allan Border Field, Brisbane (D/N)

December 8, 2024: Allan Border Field, Brisbane (D)

December 11, 2024: WACA Ground, Perth (D/N)

Adani Defence & Aerospace joins IIT Gandhinagar to bolster defence sector with new-age tech

Gandhinagar, May 13 (IANS)

In a bid to foster collaboration in research, education, and innovation in defence technology, the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) on Monday joined hands with Adani Defence & Aerospace, a subsidiary of Adani Group, to collaborate in areas of emerging technologies. The collaboration will encompass joint research projects, prototype developments, student projects, and joint workshops in technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and large language models (LLMs) for defence

applications.

The MoU was signed by Amit Prashant, Dean, Research & Development, IITGN, and Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO, Adani Defence & Aerospace, on the IITGN campus.

“Our collaboration with IITGN marks a pivotal moment in the defence sector’s technological evolution. By combining our industry acumen with IITGN’s academic prowess, we aim to develop sophisticated, innovative solutions for defence,” said Rajvanshi.

“Our joint efforts underscore our dedication to national security and affirm our commitment to India’s self-reliance in defence technology,” he added.

The partnership between Adani Defence & Aerospace and IITGN is a strategic step forward in reinforcing India’s defence sector through technological

innovation and academicindustry collaboration.

“Our alliance with Adani Defence and Aerospace, a trailblazer in the defence industry, is a testament to our shared vision of harnessing potential technologies for defence,” said Rajat Moona, Director, IITGN.

This collaboration offers “our faculty and students the opportunity to tackle significant challenges within the defence realm and broadens their industry horizons”, he added.

Adani Defence & Aerospace is a pioneer in the design, development, and manufacturing of state-of-the-art defence equipment. It has established a robust platform for startups and MSMEs to help develop a vibrant defence ecosystem with an export-oriented mindset, bestin-class processes, and quality management systems.

Adani Sportsline’s athletes shine in Gujarat State Jr Basketball Championship

May 15 (IANS) Adani

players shone in Gujarat State Junior Basketball Championship for Ahmedabad district girl's and

boy's teams, clinching gold and silver, respectively.

Vanisa helped the girl's team win gold while another trainee Taksh Patel was part of the boys’ team that clinched second spot in the same tournament.

In less than five years of its launch, the Adani Sportsline Academy has emerged as a cradle of budding sports stars with its trainees making quite a splash.

Chief Business Officer of Adani Sportsline Sanjay Adesara said, “I am happy to see students of Adani Sportsline begin to make a name for themselves. This shows how effective our training facilities and coaches are. This will pave the way for more success stories

at the highest level.

"Girls and boys at the Adani Sportsline Academy have been working very hard. We have been able to bring the best out of these young stars only because of the state-of-the-art facilities at the Adani Sportsline Sabarmati Riverfront Sports Park," said Shaikh Shakeel, a FIBA certified coach, who won the award for best coach in Ahmedabad for three consecutive years.

Launched in 2019, the Adani Sportsline Academies focus on other sports too, such as cricket, football and roller skating. Many trainees have played for district teams as well as in national-level competitions.

Gautam Adani meets Japanese envoy, says his support for India ‘truly inspiring’

Ahmedabad, May 29 (IANS)

Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, said on Wednesday that he met Hiroshi Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan to India, adding that the envoy's appreciation for India's culture and his tremendous support for the country are "truly inspiring". In a post on X, Gautam Adani

said he is grateful for Suzuki’s visit to the company’s Mundra Port and Khavda (in Gujarat) where Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL) is developing the world's largest renewable energy project of 30,000 MW (30 GW) on barren land.

"Had a very engaging discussion with Amb Hiroshi Suzuki of Japan. We are grateful for his visit to our Mundra Port and to Khavda where we are building the world's largest Hybrid Renewable Energy Park of 30 GW capacity," said the Chairman of the Adani Group.

"The ambassador’s appreciation for India's culture, the value he places on our partnership and his tremendous support for India are truly inspiring," Gautam Adani added.

The world’s largest renewable

Led

by

Adani Group, India saw robust deal-making activity in April: Report

New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) India Inc saw robust deal-making activity in April, with three major domestic consolidations by the Adani Group valued at $2 billion, representing 38 per cent of the total deal values, a new report showed on Monday.

The month saw 191 deals worth $9.4 billion, a 21 per cent increase in volumes, but a 37 per cent decrease in values compared to March, according to Grant Thornton’s ‘Bharat Dealtracker’ report.

The month saw 12 high-value deals (of more than $100 million), totalling $3.8 billion.

“The deal outlook remains positive, underpinned by a thriving ecosystem that spans technology, consumer, and infrastructure sectors and supported by forward-thinking government policies, poised to drive comprehensive growth across the board,” said Shanthi Vijetha, Partner-Growth, at Grant Thornton Bharat.

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) acquired 56 per cent stake in SP Group, and 39 per

in

for Rs 3,080 crore.

"The transport and logistics sector witnessed a boost by Adani Ports' acquisition of Gopalpur Port Ltd, enhancing its logistical capabilities, critical for supporting India’s growing international trade demands," the report mentioned.

Ambuja Cements, Adani Group’s building material company, announced to acquire My Home Group's 1.5 MTPA (million tonnes per annum) cement grinding unit in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, for Rs 413.75 crore.

“The Adani Group's strategic acquisitions valued at $2 billion underscored a trend towards strengthening core industries,” the report said.

Leading the charge, the manufacturing sector, spearheaded by Adani Group’s acquisitions in the cement industry, "saw significant consolidation efforts aimed at enhancing production capacities and market reach", it noted.

Largest container ship ever to arrive in India docks at Adani’s Mundra Port

energy project at Khavda in Kutch is built across 538 sq km and is five times the size of Paris and almost as large as Mumbai city.

AGEL has surpassed 10,000 megawatts (MW) of operational portfolio, delivering reliable, affordable, and clean power to the national grid that will power more than 5.8 million homes and help avoid about 21 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.

Meanwhile, with cargo volumes of 180 MMT (more than 16 per cent YoY growth) in FY24, the flagship Mundra port is well placed to cross the 200 MMT mark in FY25. Mundra Port, the flagship of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), has just created yet another record by welcoming the largest container ship ever to call at an Indian port.

Ahmedabad, May 26 (IANS)

Mundra Port, the flagship of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), has created yet another record by welcoming the largest container ship ever to call at an Indian port, the company announced on Sunday.

The docked vessel, MSC Anna, has a length of 399.98 metres — roughly the length of four football fields — and is among the largest container ships, with the capacity to carry 19,200 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units).

"The arrival of MSC Anna at Mundra not only highlights the port’s capacity to handle mega ships but also reflects its pivotal role in enhancing India’s maritime trade capabilities," the

company said in a statement. Its arrival draft is 16.3 metres, which can be accommodated only at Adani Ports, Mundra, as no other port in India is capable of berthing a deep-draft vessel. During its stay, the expected exchange is 12,500 TEUs, underscoring Mundra Port’s capability to manage large-scale cargo efficiently, the company said.

In July 2023, Adani Ports, Mundra created a record by berthing MV MSC Hamburg, one of the longest container ships in the world, with an overall length of 399 metres and a capacity of 16,652TEUs. Adani Ports, Mundra’s recordbreaking feats continued into the latter half of 2023. In October, it became the first in India to handle 16 MMT cargo in a single month.

"As APSEZ continues to expand and upgrade its facilities, the port is set to play an increasingly significant role in the global shipping and logistics landscape," the company said.

cent

Orissa Stevedores Limited (OSL) in Gopalpur Port Limited (GPL)

Ahmedabad,

Sportsline Academy's

Porsche crash: Grandfather of minor accused arrested for threatening family driver

Pune (Maharashtra), May 25

(IANS) The Pune Police have arrested Surendra Kumar Agarwal, the grandfather of the minor accused in the Porsche car crash that killed two persons in the early hours of May 19, an official said here on Saturday. Agarwal is accused of allegedly threatening and confining the family driver, Gangaram Poojari and forcing him to take the blame for the Porsche car accident on his head in return for monetary consideration.

With this, three generations of the Agarwal family are in hot soup under various charges in the same case -- the Porsche car

crash that instantly killed two techies from Madhya Pradesh -Ashwini Koshtha and her friend Aneesh Awadhiya -- sparking a nationwide uproar.

Agarwal, who was nabbed after interrogation around 3 a.m. on Saturday, is likely to be produced before the Pune court later in the day for remand.

His son and prominent Pune realty developer Vishal S. Agarwal was arrested and sent to police custody which ended on May 24 and was remanded to a two-week judicial remand.

His grandson and prime accused minor boy is under detention at a juvenile correctional home till June 5 after he rammed his speeding Porsche car into the Koshtha-Awadhiya duo returning home on their motorcycle.

Hundreds of citizens will take part in a silent candlelight vigil near Kalyani Nagar as a homage to

the two departed souls.

“This vigil is a citizen initiative aimed at protesting the administration's inaction to curb rampant violations arising from late-night activities in residential areas. It also serves as a show of solidarity and support for the bereaved families of the victims,” said Team Swachh Kalyani Nagar (TSKN) representatives Jaffar Iqbal and Drayson Dixon.

Friday evening, the Pune Police suspended two policemen of the Yerawada Police Station for alleged dereliction of duty and other lapses pertaining to the accident, as public anger continued to simmer.

The two officials are: Police Inspector Rahul Jagdale and Assistant Police Inspector Vishwanath Todkar, both were on duty at the hour. The accident site of Kalyani Nagar falls within the jurisdiction of the Yerawada Police Station.

Sex video scandal: War of words between Siddaramaiah & Kumaraswamy turns personal

Bengaluru, May 25 (IANS) The war of words between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the former Chief Minister Kumaraswamy in connection with the alleged sex video scandal turned personal on Saturday. Taking exception to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s statement that former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda had sent his grandson, sex video scandal prime accused Prajwal Revanna to a foreign country, Kumaraswamy questioned whether Siddaramaiah had sent his “son abroad to die”.

“Whoever it is, pain is pain. An incident occurred in your (CM Siddaramaiah’s) family. Did you send him abroad? Are you responsible for his death?” Kumaraswamy said.

He said all leaders are talking about the diplomatic passport but they have no knowledge of the law as a diplomatic passport cannot

be revoked immediately.

Addressing Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K Shivakumar as “CD Shivu,” Kumaraswamy said that the person needs not to be addressed as Shivakumar.

“He should be addressed as CD Shivu. Why did you talk to broker Shivaramegowda (former Congress MP)?” Kumaraswamy asked.

“If Shivakumar has no role, why did he speak with BJP leader G. Devaraje Gowda and Shivaramegowda to malign the Deve Gowda family? He is carrying out the work of a ‘pimp’ and a ‘broker,’” Kumaraswamy said.

He said that the Home Minister should conduct the investigation in an unbiased manner. “Let them take action against the real culprit, we don’t have any objections,” he said.

Responding to the allegations, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that it has been eight years since the death of Rakesh Siddaramaiah (his son).

“To bring up the matter now is foolishness. They are doing it for

political reasons. He died in 2016, what is the relevance now? The case against his elder brother’s son is of rape,” the Chief Minister said.

He said that under which section is it said that distribution of videos is a more serious crime than committing rape? “Which IPC section explains this? The punishment is given under the IPC sections, and Kumaraswamy is referring to which section?” the Chief Minister asked.

“Kumaraswamy says that exposing victims is a more serious offence than rape. I want to ask which IPC section deals with this offence. Let him explain if he has any new criminal law of his own,” the Chief Minister said.

He said that the Ministry of External Affairs has issued the passport to Prajwal Revanna and it has to cancel it. “It has been 15 days since we wrote a letter to the ministry. The SIT also wrote a letter. What more do they want? They should not keep finding faults with the investigation,” the Chief Minister said.

Rajkot fire tragedy: Ahmedabad Police crack down on unlicensed game zones

game zones

Ahmedabad, May 28 (IANS) In the wake of the Rajkot Gamezone fire incident, Ahmedabad City Police have started inspection of game zones operating across the city. It has come to light that six game zones are operating without proper police permission. Officials shared, “To address this

IIT Madras’ startup Agnikul launches world’s 1st rocket with fully 3D-printed engine

Chennai, May 30 (IANS) Agnikul Cosmos, a start-up incubated at the IIT Madras, on Thursday launched the world's first rocket with a single-piece three-dimensional (3D) printed engine.

The rocket Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator) is also India's first semi-cryogenic engine-powered rocket launch that was completely designed and manufactured indigenously.

It was also launched from India's first privately developed launchpad called 'Dhanush' established by Agnikul at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh at 7.15 a.m. today.

The launch pad is located inside ISRO's rocket port in Sriharikota.

The test flight aims to demonstrate the in-house and homegrown technologies, gather crucial flight data, and ensure the optimal functioning of systems for Agnikul's orbital launch vehicle, the 'Agnibaan'.

"The Department of Space and ISRO congratulates Agnikul Cosmos on the successful launch

of 'Agnibaan - SOrTeD'. The success involving many firsts including 3D printed semi-cryogenic engines, flight control systems, etc., demonstrate the prowess of indigenous design and innovation," said S. Somanath, Chairman, ISRO, in a statement. "It motivates ISRO to support the Space startups and non-governmental entities for innovation and Atmanirbharata to create a vibrant space ecosystem in the country," he added.

Agnibaan is a two-stage rocket with a capacity to carry up to 300 kg to a height of 700 km. The rocket engines are powered by liquid oxygen/kerosene.

It can access both low and high-inclination orbits and is completely mobile - designed for accessing more than 10 launch ports, as per the company.

"We are proud to present India's first Semi-cryo rocket engine, which is also the world's most integrated single shot 3D printed piece.

It signals the ability to rapidly assemble rockets that is unparalleled," said Satyanarayanan R Chakravarthy, Founding Advisor, Agnikul Cosmos and also the Head of the National Centre for Combustion Research and Development (NCCRD) at IIT Madras.

The private rocket maker is likely to launch an orbital mission by the end of the financial year of 2025 and is working with customers on flights starting regularly from CY 2025, the company said.

‘lady don’ arrested by Delhi Police

New Delhi, May 28 (IANS) A 22-year-old alleged ‘lady don’, also a member of Deepak Agrola and Karamveer Kaala gang, was arrested from Fatehpur area in the national capital, said a Delhi Police’s Special Cell official on Tuesday.

issue, the police have formed three dedicated teams to conduct thorough investigations. These teams are currently assessing the compliance and safety standards of the game zones.”

Ahmedabad Police Commissioner has mandated strict action against any violations found. Legal proceedings will follow based on the investigation reports.

The accused was identified as Kaili Tanwar, a resident of Ghaziabad district in Uttar Pradesh and was also carrying a reward of Rs 25,000 on her head.

According to police, specific input was received regarding one Kaili Tanwar, who was wanted in a murder case in Loni police station and living in the area of village Mandi, was going to be near the

bus stand in Fatehpur, Delhi.

“On the basis of the above said information she was apprehended from the Fatehpur area on Monday,” said Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Amit Kaushik.

During interrogation, she disclosed her involvement in the murder case and subsequently was arrested in Kalandra under section 41.1 (ba) Cr.P.C. and produced before the court.

The officer said that an old rivalry between two groups in Loni led to the murder.

“The accused of this murder belongs to Deepak Agrola and Karamveer Kaala gang. UP Police had declared a reward of 25,000/on the arrest of Kaili,” said the officer. “Earlier on May 3, Md. Faijan a.k.a Nanhe, who was also wanted in the same case was also arrested by the team of Special Cell after a brief exchange of fire,” the DCP added.

Rajkot fire tragedy: Ahmedabad Police crack down on unlicensed

Telangana ex-cop makes sensational revelations in phone tapping case

Hyderabad, May 27 (IANS)

Several opposition leaders, including then Congress MP and present Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, dissidents within the then ruling party, businesspersons, and journalists were among the targets of phone tapping under the previous BRS government in the state, a former state police officer and accused in the snooping case, has revealed.

Former Deputy Commissioner of Police P. Radha Kishan Rao made some sensational disclosures in his reported confession before the investigating officials.

He claimed T. Prabhakar Rao, then chief of the Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB), was in charge of the entire operation aimed at gathering data on anyone who seemed to be a threat to the then Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government led by K. Chandrasekhar Rao. The operation was also conducted before the November 2023 Assembly elections and a tab was also put on the dissidents within the then ruling party.

The phone tapping and snooping row came to light after the BRS lost power to Congress and an official in the SIB, who was part of the operation, was found destroying the collected data.

Radha Kishan Rao, who was arrested in March, revealed the details of the operation during his confession statement in April.

He revealed that once an individual was flagged, the SIB's deputy chief, Praneeth Kumar, was reportedly tasked with creating profiles to neutralise potential threats to the government.

The former police official reportedly revealed that the operation not only targeted

politicians but also snooped on businesspersons in real estate and construction sectors to know their affiliations.

As political leaders, bureaucrats, members of the judiciary, and others avoided direct phone calls following rumours of phone tapping and, instead, used encrypted messaging services like WhatsApp, Snapchat and Signal, Prabhakar Rao and his group allegedly tracked communications over internet calls by acquiring and examining Internet Protocol Data Records (IPDRs).

The ex-DCP also claimed that iNews journalist Sravan Kumar had a meeting with Prabhakar Rao allegedly at the request of then-minister and senior BRS leader T. Harish Rao. Sravan Kumar allegedly sent information about opposition leaders and their financial backers to the Intelligence Bureau and the same was used to target rivals during a cash seizure operation.

He alleged cash had been moved in official vehicles in the 2018 and 2023 Assembly polls, and gave the Munugode bypoll as an example.

He claimed Rs. 3.5 crore had been confiscated from people linked to Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy, who contested the bypoll on a BJP ticket.

Sravan Kumar allegedly assisted Praneeth Kumar's team in online trolling campaigns against critics of the BRS.

Radha Kishan Rao revealed that the SIB was also used to keep a tab on BRS leaders like MLC Shambipur Raju, who had a conflict with the then Qutbullapur MLA, former Deputy Chief Minister T. Rajaiah who was unhappy with another former Deputy Chief Minister and senior leader Kadiyam Srihari, former minister Patnam Mahender Reddy and his wife, who had a difference with the then Tandur MLA and former MLA Teegala Krishna Reddy.

Revanth Reddy, his family members, retired IPS officer and then BSP state President

R.S. Praveen Kumar, Teenmaar Mallanna, BJP leaders Eatala Rajender, Bandi Sanjay, D. Arvind and media personalities NTV's Narendra Chowdary and ABN's Radhakrishna were among those whose phones were allegedly tapped.

The surveillance also extended to opposition candidates like Raghuveer, son of former minister Jana Reddy of Nagarjunasagar, Saritha Thirupathaiah of Gadwal, Juvvadi Narsinga Rao of Korutla, and Vamshi Krishna of Achampet.

A court earlier this month dismissed the bail petition of Radha Kishan Rao, who had also served as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Task Force.

Radha Kishan Rao was arrested as a conspirator along with other suspended police officials D. Praneeth Rao, Bhujanga Rao, and Thirupathanna.

The phone tapping came to light in March when a case was registered with the Panjagutta police after a petition was filed by Additional SP, SIB, D. Ramesh. Prabhakar Rao had allegedly constituted a team within SIB with his trusted aides including DSP D. Praneeth Rao for surveillance of rival political leaders and their families and dissidents within the ruling party. Praneeth Rao was arrested after he allegedly destroyed hard disks and other data when the Congress came to power.

Bhujanga Rao, Additional Superintendent of Police in Bhupalpally district and Tirupathanna, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, City Security Wing, Hyderabad City Police were arrested on March 23. They had also served in the SIB.

A city court on May 10 issued an arrest warrant against SIB chief Prabhakar Rao, the prime suspect in the phone tapping case. The Nampally Metropolitan Magistrate also issued an arrest warrant against Sravan Kumar. Both are believed to be in the US.

Air India flight chaos: Passengers faint amid 20-hour delay

New Delhi, May 31 (IANS) A passenger on an Air India flight bound for San Francisco claimed that several people experienced fainting spells inside the aircraft due to a lack of air conditioning after a delay of more than eight hours.

The flight, originally scheduled for departure on Thursday afternoon, is now set to take off Friday at 11 am, following a delay exceeding 20 hours.

According to Shweta Punj, a journalist who shared the incident on X, Flight No. AI 183 was delayed by more than eight hours on Thursday, with passengers being required to board the plane and

endure the discomfort of sitting without air conditioning at Delhi airport.

“If there is a privatisation story that has failed it is @airindia @DGCAIndia AI 183 flight has been delayed for over 8 hours, passengers were made to board the plane without air conditioning, and then deplaned after some people fainted in the flight. This is inhuman!” she said in a series of tweets.

“While growing up I would often travel Air India- when I moved to the US in the mid-2000s..it was my airline of choice..the choice was largely driven by a feeling of homesickness and patriotism. The airline wasn’t as plush but wasn’t as broken either,” she said. In a tweet on Friday morning, she said that the passengers were sent to a hotel late last night, to be back at 8:00 am to the airport and now they have been asked to go back to the hotel.

Will cooperate in probe, says Shashi Tharoor on aide’s detention in gold smuggling case

Delhi, May 30 (IANS) Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Thursday said that he will be cooperating in the probe involving his aide in a case of gold smuggling.

The aide was reportedly detained from the IGI Airport here by the Customs Department for allegedly trying to smuggle in gold estimated to be valued at over Rs 35.22 lakh.

In a post on X, Tharoor said that he was in Dharamshala for campaigning and was shocked to hear about the incident.

While seeking to make his case

clear, he said the aide was an old and ill part-time employee. "I was shocked to hear of an incident involving a former member of my staff who has been rendering part-time service to me in terms of airport facilitation assistance. He is a 72 year old retiree undergoing frequent dialysis and was retained on a part-time basis on compassionate grounds," he said.

"I do not condone any alleged wrongdoing and fully support the authorities in their efforts to take any necessary action as may be required to investigate the matter. The law must take its own course," the Congress leader added. Meanwhile, the Customs Department in a statement said that based on suspicion, officers at IGI Airport have booked a case of smuggling of gold against an Indian national who arrived at the Airport from Bangkok by flight TG-323 on Wednesday.

JD(S) MP Prajwal’s return will aid probe in sex videos case, says K’taka HM; assures protection to victims

Bengaluru, May 31 (IANS)

Karnataka Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara stated on Friday that the return to India of JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna, the prime accused in the sex videos case, would aid the investigation. He also urged the victims to come forward to lodge complaints with

the police and SIT, and promised them government protection.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru in the wake of Prajwal Revanna's arrest in the wee hours of Friday at Bengaluru International Airport, he noted that the fugitive Hassan MP’s diplomatic passport would have been withdrawn if he had lost the election, compelling him to return to the country.

“It remains to be seen how developments will unfold in the next few days,” he stated.

HM Parameshwara said that former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda’s grandson Prajwal Revanna’s arrival in India would help the SIT in its investigation.

Prajwal Revanna arrived in Bengaluru between 12:45 A.M. and 1 A.M. from Munich, Germany and the SIT arrested him at the airport.

HM Parameshwara stated, “The law will take its course. I have not discussed much about Prajwal with the SIT officers as I had gone to Shivamogga on Thursday to meet the family of a Tribal

Corporation employee who committed suicide and I reached Bengaluru late.

“I will discuss the matter with the officials. As of now, I only know that he has been arrested. The SIT will conduct further proceedings such as taking him for a medical test and presenting him before the judge. He will be questioned afterwards.”

HM Parameshwara stated that for the first time, former minister and senior JD(S) leader SR Mahesh’s name has come up in connection with the victim

kidnapping case. “I need to learn about it from the SIT,” he said. When asked about a helpline and fresh complaints against Prajwal, HM Parameshwara maintained that he had not sought information in this regard.

“The SIT will maintain secrecy on some issues. I will not look into the matter much,” he said.

Replying to a question on whether the Hassan MP was cooperating with the investigation, HM Parameshwara stated, “Naturally, he has to cooperate, and I assume that he has. He was arrested after the completion of all the processes, which went smoothly.”

New

Corruption, drugs, gangs and resource mafia has destroyed Punjab: PM Modi in Patiala

Patiala, May 23 (IANS) Blaming "corrupt Congress and AAP" as "two sides of the same coin",

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that rampant corruption, flourishing drug industry, and dampened industrial prospects have destroyed the much famous spirit of Punjab.

"Today, resource mafia, drug mafia, and shooter gangs rule the roost in Punjab. The state government is debt-ridden, and its CM is only CM on paper. Corrupt Congress and AAP are two sides of the same coin that are aiming to plunder Punjab and deprive it of any development," said PM Modi while addressing an election rally in Patiala - his first in the state during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

BJP's Patiala candidate Preneet Kaur, Faridkot candidate Hans Raj Hans, Sangrur candidate Arvind Khanna, Bathinda candidate Parampal Kaur, party's state chief Sunil Jakhar were also present on the occasion as the Prime Minister, who donned a Sikh turban, began his address by paying rich tributes to the land of

Guru Tegh Bahadur.

Slamming the Congress party, PM Modi said the party kept people away from the Kartarpur Sahib for 70 years.

"Congress did the partition of the country in such a way that for 70 years, we had to use binoculars to get a glimpse of Kartarpur Sahib. In 1971, when the Bangladesh war was fought, more than 90,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered.

Had I been there at that time, I would have taken Kartarpur Sahib from Pakistan and then released their soldiers. I have tried my best and today, the Kartarpur Sahib corridor is open for the devotees," he said.

Saying that his government has always been inspired by Sikh traditions, the PM credited the BJP for commemorating the 'Veer Bal Diwas', bringing Sikhs back from war zone Afghanistan, and retrieving the Holy Guru Granth Sahib.

PM Modi said that the INDI Alliance indulges in vote-bank politics and is least interested in India's 'vikas' and 'virasat'.

"They (INDI Alliance) opposed the CAA owing to their vote-bank politics. For the sake of the vote bank, they also prevented our Sikh brothers and sisters from coming to India after facing the horrors of partition".

In his speech, PM Modi insisted that the BJP gives priority to the welfare of farmers' community.

"In the last 10 years, there has been a record purchase of wheat and paddy from Punjab. In 10 years, we have increased the MSP by two and a half times," he said.

Prime Minister Modi promised that, in the next five years, he wants to make India a manufacturing hub with a significant contribution coming in from Punjab. Patiala, he said, will emerge as a hub for education.

PM Modi also said that it is his government which has exempted 'langar' from taxes.

"Previously, devotees from abroad could not make donations, but Modi relaxed the rules, and now anyone from any corner of the world can serve at the Harmandir Sahib Gurdwara," said the PM.

"I have come here to take your blessings. I have come to the land of Gurus, seeking blessings. Whether it is national security, protecting culture and heritage or the country's development, the Punjab and Sikh community has always been at the forefront," he added.

Ahead of the PM's visit, Patiala was turned into a fortress with a huge deployment of police and security personnel.

BJP candidate Hansraj Hans, while on his way to attend the PM's rally, was stopped by protesting farmers near Patiala before the local police intervened to manage the situation.

Batting for stronger India, PM Modi promises more development for Himachal in 3rd

Nahan (Himachal), May 24

(IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who considers Himachal Pradesh as his second home, said on Friday that a third term for his government at the Centre will not only make India more stronger but also usher in more development for the state.

"Five phases of elections are over and the BJP-NDA government is coming to power," PM Modi said while addressing a massive public meeting - which, he said was one of the biggest ever he has seen in the state - in Sirmaur district's Nahan town that is part of the Shimla (reserved) constituency. Insisting that the high mountains of Himachal have taught him to always keep spirits high, the Prime Minister added: "Now, Himachal will score a hat-trick with a 4-0 victory. Vote for those who will form the government. What is the point of wasting your vote? So, say with me, ‘Phir Ek Baar, Modi Sarkar". Seeking blessings to make a

powerful India, PM Modi, who donned a Himachali cap, said: "When the country didn’t even know Modi, I was among you. Times have changed, but Modi has not changed. Modi's relationship with Himachal remains the same."

Slamming Congress, the ruling party in the state, PM mentioned that the implementation of the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme, a long-standing demand of military personnel, was fulfilled under his leadership.

"The Congress party made military families yearn for One Rank One Pension for four decades. The Congress used to say they would bring OROP by showing just Rs 500 crore. This was a huge insult to our army because it was impossible to implement OROP with just Rs 500 crore. It is Modi who has implemented OROP. Modi has given about Rs 1.25 lakh crore to former soldiers through OROP. That's why people say, "Modi delivers what he guarantees," he said.

PM Modi asserted the significance of having a robust government at the Centre, especially for a border state like Himachal Pradesh. "Himachal Pradesh is a state bordering the frontier. The

From 2014 to 2024, how BJP campaign revolved around PM Modi’s defining agenda

New Delhi, May 30 (IANS) The high-voltage campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections came to an end on Thursday evening, setting the stage for the seventh and final phase of polling on June 1. Now, all eyes would be on the Exit Poll results, slated for June 1, for an understanding on the likely poll outcome and then on

the counting day (June 4), when the people mandate will show whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government gets record third term or not.

Amid the Congress' battle-cry to oust Modi government from power and latter's resolve to return for third record time, what has caught the attention of political pundits and analysts is the poll plank of parties, particularly the BJP in three elections -- 2014, 2019 and 2024. In all these elections, BJP's election machinery overwhelmed the Congress campaign, and PM Modi's appeal and charisma served as the key pivot.

Shashi Tharoor claims BJP has lost the national security narrative

Patna May 24 (IANS) Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday slammed the Central government over national security, claiming that it did not take any action on the border issues involving China.

term

people of Himachal understand the importance of a strong government. Modi will risk his life for you but will not let any harm come to you. The weak Congress government used to plead around the world. Modi says, why should India go to the world? India will fight its battles on its own."

The PM also reminded people that the Congress government in the state had promised to give Rs 1,500 per month to women in the age group of 18 to 60 years in its first Cabinet meeting but the promise has not been fulfilled so far. "Before coming to power, the Congress government of Himachal had promised to buy cow dung at Rs 2 per kg from the farmers and the government has still not fulfilled this guarantee too," he mentioned.

PM Modi highlighted that Himachal Pradesh has received a bulk drugs park, a medical device park and was among the first states in the country where the Vande Bharat train was started.

"With the ‘PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana’ your bill will be zero, and you will also earn thousands of rupees. Just as Modi fulfilled his previous guarantees, he will fulfil these guarantees as well," the Prime Minister added.

“The BJP contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections making national security an issue, but what happened after that? China came to the borders and destroyed the understanding that the two countries developed over the years. They (China) knew that the Narendra Modi government only talks, but doesn't take any action,”

Tharoor said while interacting with mediapersons here.

“If the BJP is contesting the ongoing elections on national security, I would like to say that we had 65 patrolling points on the India-China border where the armies of both countries had the authority to do patrolling for 45 years. Now, the Chinese army has occupied 26 of them and they are not allowing the Indian Army to go there.

"The Modi government has not done anything in this matter.

Twenty of our soldiers were martyred in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh,” Tharoor said.

Tharoor's remarks came after senior BJP leaders pointed out that PoK belongs to India, and it will be taken back from Pakistan at any cost.

JD-U takes a jibe at Tejashwi Yadav over mid air cake-cutting in helicopter

Patna, May 23 (IANS) Bihar

Finance Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary on Thursday took a jibe at Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Tejashwi Yadav for celebrating and cutting a cake mid-air in his helicopter.

“They (Tejashwi Yadav and Mukesh Sahani) can cut the cake in a helicopter or make any statement. It would not make any difference. The people are with NDA,” the Finance Minister said.

Earlier, Tejashwi Yadav and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) Chief Mukesh Sahani cut a cake in the helicopter marking the celebration after addressing over 200 election rallies across Bihar.

Chaudhary said that the people of the state have seen what the RJD government has done to the state in the past.

“People are answering them through their votes. The NDA candidates are continuously getting public support on all seats in Bihar,” he said.

Reacting to the cake-cutting celebration, former Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi also took a jibe at Tejashwi Yadav and mentioned about the job scam.

“This cake was brought from the money they have looted from people,” the former Chief Minister said.

Tejashwi also uploaded a video, of cake cutting, on his official X handle. In the video, Tejashwi Yadav asks Mukesh Sahni where he got the idea of cutting the cake. In response, Sahani targeted the NDA constituents, saying that he was doing this so that their opponents get annoyed.

“Our friendship and brotherhood is not only annoying the opposition in Bihar but across the country as well,” Mukesh Sahani tells Tejashwi Yadav in the video.

All eyes on UP’s final phase as PM Modi seeks third term from Varanasi

Lucknow, May 31 (IANS) The stakes are high for the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh and the eyes of the entire nation will be fixed on this phase as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a third term from Varanasi. There is no guessing who will

emerge as the winner from this high-profile constituency. The campaign in the constituency has been marked by the presence of over a dozen union ministers, NDA alliance leaders and the well-wishers of the Prime Minister, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani. Another constituency in the state which is grabbing eyeballs is Gorakhpur, the hometown of UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Though the BJP candidate in Gorakhpur is actor-politician

Ravi Kishan, it is the prestige of Yogi Adityanath which is at stake. The Chief Minister himself has actively campaigned in the constituency.

In the seventh phase, polling will be held in 13 Lok Sabha constituencies including Maharajganj, Gorakhpur, Kushinagar, Deoria, Bansgaon (SC), Ghosi, Salempur, Ballia, Ghazipur, Chandauli, Varanasi, Mirzapur and Robertsganj (SC).

A total of 144 candidates are in the fray in the seventh phase, according to Chief Election Officer Navdeep Rinwa.

K’taka BJP chief flays Cong govt for violence, seeks Governor’s intervention

Bengaluru, May 25 (IANS)

Holding the state Congress party responsible for the violence and attack on police personnel in Channagiri town following a custodial death, Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra said on Saturday that Muslim vote bank appeasement is driving the state towards anarchy.

Vijayendra demanded that the Governor should immediately intervene and obtain a report from the government on the law and order situation. “I demand the intervention of the Governor to restore law and order in the state in light of the attacks on police stations,” he stated.

Vijayendra further asserted that, in cases of arrests of criminals, disruptive forces do not hesitate to attack and burn

down police stations under the guise of minority rights. The Congress government is directly responsible for the situation. “The appeasement of the Muslim vote bank is driving the state towards anarchy,” he stressed.

He emphasised that the possibility of involvement of terrorist forces, such as those recently arrested in connection with the Bengaluru cafe blast case, cannot be ignored. “There is a situation in the state where even the security of policemen is not ensured, and police stations are not safe,” Vijayendra criticised.

“There is a situation where the police are unable to perform their duties without bias. As a result, the state has become a safe haven for terrorists. The dominance of mafia and rowdies has crossed limits, and rave parties are organised without checks,” he stated.

“First it was DJ Halli, recently it was Udupi. Today, the Channagiri incident shows that fundamentalist forces are wellorganised to attack and destroy

police stations. The concern is growing about the state and society we are living in,” he underlined.

“The days of Bihar during the rule of former CM Lalu Prasad Yadav are recurring in Karnataka. The Congress government is turning the peaceful land of Karnataka into a land of insecurity and violence. A systematic network is operating to demoralise the police force in the state,” Vijayendra charged.

“When the police and police stations are not safe, the people do not know whom they should approach. The Congress government is weakening the police system. Let the Congress declare that they run the government only for fundamentalist minorities and stand by them. Let them also declare that their aim is to accord liberty to their activities. The people will take care of themselves. The developments in the state are increasing the concern of the people,” he opined.

‘Shehzade’ have already booked tickets for vacation abroad after June 4: HM Amit Shah

Domariyaganj (UP), May 23 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said that the two “Shehzade” (Princes) -Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav -- have already booked tickets for their "vacation" abroad as they want to escape the heat here.

“They (Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav) are aware that in the five phases of elections, the BJP has already won 310 seats and will cross the 400 mark in the remaining two phases,” the Home Minister said.

Speaking at a rally here, Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not taken even a single day’s leave in the past 23 years.

“Now you know the difference. Hum kahan jayenge –yahin jiyenge, yahin marenge,” he said.

He further said that the INDIA bloc is a congregation of corrupt elements who have done a scam worth Rs 12 lakh crores.

“But there is not a blot on the character of PM Modi,” he pointed out.

Listing the welfare schemes launched by the Modi government, Amit Shah said that the BJP had fulfilled the demand for ‘one rank one pension’ in the army.

Final phase of Lok Sabha elections set for June 1, encompassing 57 constituencies across eight states

New Delhi, May 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

As India gears up for the culmination of the Lok Sabha elections, the final phase is slated to occur on June 1, spanning 57 constituencies spread across eight states and union territories. Polling is scheduled to take place in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Chandigarh, adhering to the Election Commission's directives from 7 am to 6 pm.

The Election Commission has lauded the fervent participation of voters from diverse demographics, including persons with disabilities, senior citizens, transgenders, and particularly vulnerable tribal groups, during the preceding phases of the Lok Sabha elections.

In a landmark move, home voting facilities were extended for senior citizens above 85 years and persons with disabilities with a 40% benchmark disability for the first time on a pan-India basis in this parliamentary poll.

In a political slugfest, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has rebutted assertions regarding his health status, responding to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks during election rallies. Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized PM Modi's extensive

touring and his failure to visit violence-affected Manipur.

Indian National Congress (INC) Mandi candidate Vikramaditya Singh took a dig at BJP leader Kangana Ranaut, accusing her of lacking dedication to Himachal Pradesh issues. INC leader Jairam Ramesh expressed optimism about the INDIA bloc securing a decisive mandate in the Lok Sabha polls, hinting at the potential finalization of its prime ministerial candidate within 48 hours.

However, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis derided Rahul Gandhi's assertion about the INDIA alliance forming the government post-June 4, dismissing it as 'Mungeri Lal Ke Haseen Sapne.'

Actor and BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty conducted a spirited roadshow in Kolkata to endorse BJP candidate Tapas Roy, exuding confidence in the party's prospects and shrugging off Mamata Banerjee's prognosis of a reduced BJP seat share.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's forthcoming 45-hour meditation retreat at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari has sparked apprehensions from Congress and Mamata Banerjee about potential violations of the Model Code of Conduct.

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi joined forces with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav in Varanasi, challenging Modi's candidacy, while political strategist Prashant Kishor foresees another electoral triumph for Modi in the impending elections.

‘Anti-Sanatan mindset’: BJP slams INDIA bloc for questioning PM Modi’s

meditation

“During the Samajwadi regime, criminals were indulging in extortion, land grabbing, kidnappings etc. But when Yogi Adityanath's government came to power, he turned all such elements upside down,” he said.

Referring to the reservation issue, the Home Minister said that the West Bengal High Court has already struck down the reservation given illegally.

“I promise you that there will be no cut in the quota of SC/ST, OBCs and Muslims. It is the INDIA members who want to appease their vote bank,” he added.

Home Minister Amit Shah underlined the importance of the region and said that the BJP government is working to develop the Buddhist circuit.

New Delhi, May 31 (IANS) BJP Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla on Friday slammed the INDIA bloc for being “antiSanatan” and questioning

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meditation at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu.

"What has happened to Congress and the INDIA bloc? If the Prime Minister says something, they have a problem. If he goes to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial for meditation without saying anything, even then, they have a problem," Poonawalla said.

He said this reflects the

opposition's "frustration" and "anti-Sanatan" mindset.

"These (opposition) people opposed Ram Temple, labelled it as useless and said that there is no relevance of Lord Ram. They used phrases like Hindu terror and said that Sanatan is a disease. Now, these people have a problem with a Hindu meditating peacefully and will issue fatwas?" Poonawala said.

Responding to allegations that the meditation violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), Poonawalla said that PM Modi is not violating the MCC. “The Prime Minister is not campaigning or promoting, he is not saying something, he is not passing any political statements, nor is this a political gathering,” he said.

He said that the opposition claims that meditation violates the MCC and should not be covered by the media.

Minister urges Israel to abide by ICJ Rafah ruling

Canberra, May 25 (IANS) A senior

Australian government minister has urged Israel to abide by an order from the International

Court of Justice (ICJ) to halt its military offensive in southern Gaza.

On Friday, the ICJ, the top court of the UN, ordered Israel to immediately halt its military assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah and open the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza to allow aid into the region, Xinhua news agency reported.

In response, Australia's minister for climate change and energy and member of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's cabinet, Chris Bowen, said the federal

government supported the ruling.

He described the situation in Rafah as a humanitarian disaster that has the scope to get worse.

"We have been very consistent that Rafah should not be attacked," Bowen said at a press conference on Saturday.

"Australia believes international law should be complied with. Australia believes the binding rulings should be complied with, and we believe Rafah should not be invaded by Israel."

The ICJ order was adopted by a panel of 15 international judges in a 13-2 vote, with judges from Israel and Uganda opposed.

Australia, NZ pledge millions to Papua New Guinea after deadly landslide

Wellington, May 28 (IANS/DPA)

Australia and New Zealand have pledged millions of dollars of aid to Papua New Guinea in the wake of a deadly landslide.

Several villages in the province of Enga were hit when part of a mountain collapsed in the early hours of Friday in the remote central highlands of Papua New Guinea. Papua New Guinea's disaster

agency has said more than 2,000 people could be buried under the rubble.

New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters said on Tuesday the government had approved an offer of practical and financial assistance, worth about New Zealand $1.5 million (US $923,000), to help with the response.

"The landslide in Enga Province in Papua New Guinea is an absolute tragedy. Our thoughts remain with all of those directly affected and the people and government of Papua New Guinea," Peters wrote on social media platform X.

"The precise nature of our assistance will be shaped by the needs of affected communities,

as determined through ongoing discussions with PNG [Papua New Guinea] authorities," Peters added.

Overnight, Australia's Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said it would provide an initial Australian $2.5 million (US $1.6 million) in humanitarian assistance.

"As a close neighbour and friend, we will be doing all we can to provide support," he wrote on X. The Australian Defence Force was working closely with its counterparts in Papua New Guinea, Marles said. "This work is yet another demonstration of the close partnership between our nations and militaries."

Know why human cases of H5N1 in US & Australia are cause of concern

New Delhi, May 23 (IANS)

Detection of avian or bird flu in two humans in the US and one in Australia shows that the virus has adapted for circulation in mammals, raising fresh concerns over the risk of spillover to humans, said experts on Thursday.

The bird flu virus H5N1 has in recent years seen a significant increase in spillover to mammals. Besides killing a record number of birds in 2023, the virus also spread to otters, sea lions, minks, foxes, dolphins, and seals, among others.

"The reason for concern is that this virus appears to be spilling over to mammals lately, and in rare instances, to man. This shows that the virus has recently adapted for circulation in

mammals," Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, co-chairman of the Indian Medical Association's National Covid-19 Task Force, told IANS.

"There is no doubt that human infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A, H5N1 type virus that primarily causes bird flu, has a lot of potential for severe respiratory infection as well as high mortality. But the biggest solace is the fact that human-to-human transmission is extremely rare and almost not heard of," added epidemiologist Dr. Ishwar Gilada.

Human cases of H5N1

Early this year, H5N1 infected dairy cows in the US and the virus fragments were also detected in pasteurised milk sold in stores. In April, a man from Texas working on the dairy farms reportedly became the first human in the US to contract the virus from sick cattle.

On Wednesday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported the second human case of highly pathogenic avian

Australia prepares to help Papua New Guinea after deadly landslide

Sydney, May 27 (IANS/DPA)

Australia is poised to send help to the site of a deadly Papua New Guinea landslide where 670 people are feared to have been killed.

Australia's Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said government officials had been in touch with Papua New Guinea counterparts since Friday when the landslide occurred.

"Ours are two countries which are very, very close together, and in moments of natural disaster, they have been very, very quick to support us, and we are doing the same thing," Marles told the Australian public broadcaster ABC on Monday.

He said the "exact nature of the support" that Australia could give would be finalised in the coming days.

This could include airlift capacity and search and rescue equipment, Marles said.

"It's just now a matter of working out exactly what we can do in the context of this occurring in a very remote part of the country," he added.

Several villages in the province of Enga were hit when part of a mountain collapsed in the early hours of Friday in the remote central highlands of Papua New Guinea.

On Sunday, the country head of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Serhan Aktoprak, said nearly 670 people were feared to be dead and 150 houses buried in thick soil.

Papua New Guinea, with a population of nearly10 million people, lies just north of Australia.

Despite being rich in minerals, timber, oil, and gas, its history of colonialism, political instability, and mismanagement of resources has kept its people impoverished.

Australian National University students defy order to disband pro-Palestine encampment

Canberra, May 27 (IANS)

Student protesters have defied an order to leave a pro-Palestine encampment at the Australian National University (ANU).

influenza (HPAI) A in a dairy farm worker in Michigan.

The CDC noted that the man is a worker on a dairy farm where the H5N1 virus has been identified in cows. In a separate case, health authorities in Australia's Victoria reported the first case of H5N1 in a child, who picked up the infection from India before traveling to Australia.

"The big question is whether the virus goes a further step and mutates enough to spread from man to man, in which case it could become a very serious situation," Dr. Rajeev said.

"It is because, unlike other common strains of influenza such as H1N1 that circulate in man, our immune system has no memory of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 strain as it was never exposed to it. That also explains the high mortality rate of close to 50 per cent," he added. Moreover, currently used influenza vaccines do not cover this strain, the doctor said.

The ANU on Monday officially ordered protesters to pack up and leave the encampment at its main campus in Canberra's northern suburbs, citing serious safety concerns that the camp is blocking an emergency

evacuation site, Xinhua news agency reported.

After voting to defy the order and remain at the site, protesters on Monday morning formed a human barrier around the edge of the encampment, according to state media the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Located in the centre of the ANU's Kambri precinct, the encampment was set up in late April as an act of protest against the university's ties with Israeli institutions amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

In a statement issued on Monday, occupants of the encampment said they would continue their peaceful demonstration.

Australian unemployment rate rises to 4.1 pct

Canberra, May 16 (IANS)

Australia's unemployment rate rose for a second straight month to 4.1 per cent in April.

According to official figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on Thursday, the unemployment rate rose from 3.9 percent in March to 4.1 percent in April -- the equal-highest rate since January 2022, Xinhua news agency reported. The rise in the unemployment rate came despite the number of employed Australians increasing by 38,500 people between March and April, with a 44,600 rise in part-time positions partially offset by a 6,100 fall in full-time roles. In the same period, the number of

unemployed people -- meaning those who are not employed but are actively looking for work -rose by 30,300 to 604,200.

The participation rate, which measures the proportion of the working-age population who are either employed or looking for work, rose slightly to 66.7 percent in April from 66.6 per cent in March. "The employment-to-population ratio remained steady at 64.0 per cent in April, indicating that recent employment growth is broadly keeping pace with population growth," Bjorn Jarvis, head of labor statistics at the ABS, said in a media release. "This suggests that the labour market remains tight, though less tight than late 2022 and early 2023."

Ministry of Ayush Government of India

Consulate General of India

Brisbane, Australia

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Thousands protest in New Zealand as government reveals budget

Wellington, May 30 (IANS/DPA)

Thousands of New Zealanders took to the streets on Thursday in a nationwide protest ahead of the new government's first budget.

Te Pati Maori (the Maori Party) alongside the Toitu Te Tiriti (Honour the Treaty) called for the protests to demonstrate a unified response to "the Government's assault" on Maori and New Zealand's founding document, Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Te Pati Maori called for the establishment of a Maori Parliament after the protests.

"Up and down the country, near 100-thousand people have taken part in activation rallies and we have saturated social media networks. We have mobilised our people in a matter of days in a

beautiful harmonious activation against this Government," it said in a statement.

"Seeing Tangata Tiriti (non-Maori) and Tangata Whenua (Maori) as one, which is the true intent of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, is exactly what scares the bejesus out of this government."

"We now begin the process of establishing our own Parliament. Our people will design what this looks like for us, nobody else."

Police Assistant Commissioner Mike Johnson said officers were monitoring multiple gatherings across the country.

"While there has been disruption to travel in some locations, the participants have been wellbehaved overall."

Johnson said in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, hundreds of vehicles had clogged roads.

Groups were converging in Auckland central, on Parliament Grounds in Wellington, and in many other cities and towns.

"Police are in attendance and are

focused on maintaining public safety while recognising the right to peaceful protest," Johnson said.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis revealed her first budget on Thursday afternoon in Wellington.

"This year's Budget is the cleanup job New Zealand needs after six years of economic mismanagement," she said.

"We are welcoming in a new era of careful government spending, lower taxes for hard-working New Zealanders and a strong focus on rebuilding the economy."

The protests were a follow-up of Te Pati Maori's Day of National Action in December, in response to the policies of the coalition government.

Since the new government was formed in November, it has overturned some of the antitobacco laws introduced by the previous left-wing government, axed the country's Maori Health Authority and encouraged its ministries to roll back the use of the Maori language.

Severe weather with tennis ball-sized hailstones, tornadoes in parts US leave 15 dead

Washington, May 27 (IANS/DPA)

Powerful storms have caused extensive damage in the southern and midwestern regions of the United States, with at least 15 lives lost.

Rescue workers and police searched for victims in the rubble and treated dozens of injured people. Deaths were reported in Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kentucky, according to US media

on Sunday.

Tornadoes were reported in many places overnight on Saturday.

US media reported hailstones that were about the size of tennis balls.

According to initial estimates, one of the storms in Oklahoma reached at least level three out of five. Tornadoes of this classification can reach speeds of up to 265 kilometres per hour.

According to CNN, almost 5,00,000 people in nine US states were without power on Sunday evening. A state of emergency was declared in several regions.

Cooke County, near Dallas, was

hit hard by winds that destroyed a motorway service area and ravaged a trailer park, resulting in the deaths of seven people, including four children, according to the sheriff.

More than 100 people were injured, and hundreds of houses were destroyed throughout Texas, said Greg Abbott, the state's governor.

Experts attribute the rise in natural disasters in the US - such as storms, floods, and forest fires - to the impacts of climate change.

According to the US National Weather Service, the frequency of tornadoes has increased in recent years.

Amid election campaign, Trump first former president convicted of crime

New York, May 31 (IANS) In a historic verdict that could impact the presidential elections with reverberations around the world.

Donald Trump, who is in the middle of a campaign to reclaim the White House, has become the first former President to be convicted of crimes.

The verdict came on Thursday from a jury of 12 ordinary citizens -- seven men and five women -- who convicted Trump on 34 criminal charges relating to hush money paid before the 2016

election to buy the silence of a porn star who alleged that they had had a sexual tryst.

US laws, however, do not prevent him from running for President or getting elected.

Of the four criminal cases pending against him, this is the first to conclude with a verdict before the November election and the others may be delayed.

Trump was charged with falsifying business records to cover up the hush money payments by showing them on his company ledgers as legal expenses paid to his lawyer Michael Cohen, an offence under New York state laws.

He faces a range of sentences from probation or a fine to prison sentences of as many as four

Nepalese woman scripts history, climbs Mt Everest thrice in two weeks

Kathmandu, May 25 (IANS)

Nepalese mountaineer Purnima

Shrestha has become the first woman to summit Mount Everest thrice in two weeks, local media reported.

Purnima, who is also a photojournalist, first summited

the world's highest peak on May 12, then on May 19, and later on May 25.

Expedition Director at 8K Expeditions Lakpa Sherpa said Purnima's impressive list of 8x8000ers summits over the years showcases her passion and expertise in mountaineering, The Himalayan Times reported.

In a post on X, Lakpa Sherpa said, "Purnima made history this year by becoming the first woman to summit Mount Everest three times in a single season with 8K Expeditions!" Purnima, a native of Gorkha, has earlier climbed Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Dhaulagiri, Mount K2 and Annapurna and Manaslu.

Heat like ‘literal hell’ sends thousands to hospital in Pakistan

Islamabad, May 24 (IANS/DPA)

Thousands of heatstroke victims were being treated at hospitals across Pakistan on Friday as temperatures reached 50 degrees Celsius amid a blazing heatwave, officials said.

The heat gripped the South Asian country for a fourth day and was likely to last for another week, government climate change chief Romina Alam said.

The temperatures could touch 51 degrees on Saturday, the country’s chief metrologist Sardar Sarfraz said.

In the southern province of Sindh, ambulances rushed people to

hospitals and temporary heat relief camps in all major cities, local official Shah Zaman said.

“We have treated thousands and more influx is coming in,” said doctor Tahir Farooq at a hospital in the city of Dadu, where the temperature hit 50.

“It is like living a literal hell. You feel like walking on burning coals as you step out in the sun,” said Zeeshan Khan Shani, a rickshaw driver in Dadu.

“It is unbearable. I’m worried about my daughters. They can faint anytime,” said Asif Shakoor, a mother in the eastern city of Lahore.

The Pakistani government last week ordered the temporary closure of schools, postponed exams, and declared emergencies at hospitals as the heatwave, the first of this summer, started.

Conviction won’t stop Trump campaign but imperil his chances

years for each of the 34 charges. Even if he is sentenced to prison, he could still stay out and campaign with an appeal to a higher court which is most likely.

Leaving the court, Trump said, "This was a disgrace. This was a rigged trial by a conflicted judge who was corrupt."

"This is long from over," he added. Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, set the sentencing for July 11, just four days before the Republican Party Convention that is expected to formally declare him its candidate for President as he has won an overwhelming majority of the delegates in the primaries, the intra-party elections.

Washington, May 30 (IANS)

The historic guilty verdict will not legally prevent former US President Donald Trump from continuing his campaign for the White House, but it could seriously impede his chances of winning as many polls have shown some of his supporters could desert him which could prove costly in a closely elected race that the 2024 election is expected to be.

A recent poll by Reuter and Ipsos showed that 13 per cent of respondents who said they

will vote for Trump prior to his conviction will not vote for him if he was held guilty in any one of the four criminal cases against him, now three with the conclusion of the hush money case ending in conviction. And the same poll showed that 21 per cent of Republicans said they will not vote for him if he was convicted.

Trump leads President Joe Biden by a narrow margin of 0.9 per cent in the RealClearPolitics average of polls and the desertion of a sizable number of his supporters severely imperil his prospects. The other three cases -- mishandling of classified papers, involvement in the January 6 assault on US Congress and attempt to change the outcome of the presidential election outcome in Georgia state — are not going into trial before the November elections.

ISIS-K calling for ‘Lone Wolf’ attack on IndiaPakistan Cricket World Cup match: Police

New York, May 30 (IANS) ISIS-K has called for a "Lone Wolf" attack on the India-Pakistan World Cup Cricket match here next month, a top police official has warned while putting security on high alert.

In a video that has gone global, the terror group is "calling for that 'Lone Wolf' to act out", said Patrick Ryder, the Police Commissioner of Nassau County where the match is scheduled for June 6. "Lone Wolves" are members or sympathisers of terrorist organisations who take cues from the organisations and operate independently by themselves making it more difficult to track them down.

On Wednesday, New York Governor Kathy Hochul said that she has "directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and thorough screening processes".

Bruce Blakeman, the head of Nassau County bordering New York City, said at a news conference, "We make sure that we are on top of every situation that could potentially arise. Now to that end, we have taken many many precautions."

Additional police officers will be mobilised at the cricket stadium at Eisenhower Park, Ryder said at the news conference.

"We will go to every fine detail when it comes to the security and safety of the residents here," he added.

Earlier there had been some ambiguity about the level of the threat posted in a chat group by ISIS-Khorasan, the offshoot of the Islamic State terrorist

organisation operating in South and Central Asia.

Before the news conference by Nassau officials, Hochul had said that "there is no credible public safety threat at this time," but added, "We continue to monitor the situation closely."

"My administration has been working for months with federal law enforcement and Nassau County to ensure New Yorkers and visitors are safe," she said. Blakeman said at the news conference, "We take every threat seriously. There are the same procedures for every threat. We don't minimise threats. We track down all of our leads."

Ryder said, "When you have a game and a crowd as big as this, everything is credible."

He said they had received threats starting in April "where it was a global and international style threat from what's called ISIS-K".

"Then it got a little bit more specific towards the actual game of India versus Pakistan but did not name the place," he said.

"And then yesterday, you all saw the video that went global, and they are calling for that 'Lone Wolf' to act out."

He was referring to a video with

"an image of the cricket stadium at Eisenhower Park in Nassau County with drones flying over it showing the date, "9/6/2024", when the India-Pakistan match, that was posted by ISIS-K on a British chat site.

With the display of drones as attack vehicles, NBC New York TV reported that county officials "say they've requested the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) to make Eisenhower Park a no-fly zone for drones".

ISIS-K has carried out attacks in Pakistan and has threatened terror strikes on India.

In March, ISIS-K terrorists attacked a concert hall in Moscow

killing about 130 people adding gravity to the latest threat.

The World Cup Cricket stadium, which has a 30,000-capacity, was built specially for the tournament and will share the fixtures in the US with the arena in Dallas.

It will kick off on June 1 with an exhibition match between India and Bangladesh and will be followed by regular tournament matches starting on June 3, pitching India against Sri Lanka, and running till June 12 with an India vs US match.

NBC New York TV said that the security preparations for the World Cup event were the largest that Nassau County has undertaken and it is being treated on par with presidential debates.

As part of the safety precautions, it said, "Local hospitals also involved just in case they're needed."

The British newspaper Express first reported on the threat, which it said was also directed against sporting venues in Europe, including the Wembley Stadium. It said that ISIS "followers are encouraged to target major events" including the Cricket World Cup.

"There were also extensive discussions on the forum as to how the terror group should use drones laden with explosives to murder civilians at major sporting events across Europe," the Express said of the postings on a chat group posted on the British website Matrix.

The Express said, "Chat room members who shared the stadium threats listed their terror skills, including firing AK-47 rifles, and discussed sums of money in pound Sterling, suggesting some might be based in Britain."

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @ arulouis)

UK, US strike Houthi targets in Yemen in combined operation

London, May 31 (IANS/DPA)

Forces of the UK and US have struck Houthi targets in Yemen in the fifth combined operation since January.

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed strikes took place against the Houthis on Thursday as part of a response to Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

The MoD said intelligence had confirmed two locations near Hudaydah as being involved with the anti-shipping attacks, with buildings identified as housing

drone ground control facilities and providing storage for very long-range drones.

Surface-to-air weapons used to impede coalition operations to safeguard shipping in the region were also believed to be on-site.

A set of Houthi facilities at Ghulayfiqah, further south on the Yemeni coast, were also identified as being involved in the command and control of the group's antishipping campaign.

RAF Typhoon FGR4s conducted strikes on the target buildings at the three locations, using Paveway IV guided bombs.

The MoD said the "utmost care" was taken in planning the strikes to "minimise any risk to civilians or non-military infrastructure."

Hamas chief of staff killed in Rafah by Israeli airstrike

Jerusalem, May 27 (IANS) Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Monday that an Israeli aircraft killed Yassin Rabia, the Hamas Chief of Staff in the West Bank, last week in the southern Gazan city of Rafah.

The strike was carried out in the area of Tal as Sultan in northwest Rafah, based on precise intelligence, said an IDF statement, noting that Rabia "managed the entirety" of Hamas' activity in the West Bank, transferred funds to targets

and planned Hamas attacks throughout the West Bank, Xinhua news agency reported.

Rabia had carried out "numerous murderous attacks," including those in 2001 and 2002, in which Israeli soldiers were killed, it said.

According to the statement, Khaled Nagar, a senior official in Hamas' West Bank Headquarters, was also killed by Israeli airstrike. He allegedly directed attacks in the West Bank and transferred funds intended for Hamas' activities in the Gaza Strip.

"The IDF is aware of reports indicating that as a result of the strike and fire that was ignited several civilians in the area were harmed. The incident is under review," it added.

N. Korea says military reconnaissance satellite launch ends in failure

Seoul, May 28 (IANS) North Korea said on Tuesday that its latest attempt to launch a new rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite ended in failure due to the midair explosion of the rocket during the first-stage flight this week.

Vice General Director of North Korea's National Aerospace Technology Administration (NATA) said that the rocket carrying the satellite, the Malligyong-1-1, exploded after it lifted off from the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground on the country's northwest coast on Monday, Yonhap news agency reported, citing the Korean

Two people were killed and ten others injured in one of the strikes, according to the Houthis' Al Masirah satellite news.

This is the fifth time the US and UK militaries have conducted a combined operation against the Houthis since January 12.

The Houthis, in recent months, have stepped up attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, demanding that Israel end the war in Gaza, which has killed more than 36,000 Palestinians. The war began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking 250 hostage. The Houthis have launched more than 50 attacks on shipping, seized one vessel and sunk another since November, according to the US Maritime Administration.

Central News Agency (KCNA).

The launch came just hours after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Chinese Premier Li Qiang held a trilateral summit in Seoul and reaffirmed their commitment to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula. "The launch failed due to the air blast of the new-type satellite carrier rocket during the firststage flight," the KCNA reported, citing the NATA official.

A preliminary examination by experts from the North's launch preparatory committee concluded that the "accident" was attributable to the operational reliability of a new "liquid oxygen plus petroleum" engine, the official said.

The other causes of the failure will also be examined, according to the KCNA.

Hamas says ‘no ceasefire negotiations’ with Israel after Rafah

attack

Gaza, May 28 (IANS) Hamas has reportedly informed mediators that it will not participate in any negotiation for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip or a prisoner exchange deal after Israel's attack on the southernmost Gazan city of Rafah on Sunday night.

The decision was made in response to the Israeli army's "targeting of tents housing displaced civilians in the northwest of Rafah, killing and wounding dozens of them", Xinhua news agency reported, citing a Hamas source.

The source on Monday also said that the Hamas leadership had not received any official notification from mediators in Egypt or Qatar

regarding the resumption of negotiations.

At least 45 Palestinians, including children and women, were killed in Israeli airstrikes on tents for displaced people near Rafah city, Gaza's health authorities said in a press statement on Monday.

Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan said in a press conference in Beirut on Monday that Israel would not receive the hostages "except according to our conditions presented to the mediators."

Hamdan added that Hamas's conditions for reaching a deal, including a permanent ceasefire, remained unchanged.

From the editor’s desk

Strengthening bonds: The future of Australia-India relations unfolds

A turning point in the history of Australia-India relations has been reached with the opening of the Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR) in Parramatta. Under the direction of Swati Dave, this project was started by the Albanese government in 2022 and represents a calculated attempt to improve mutual understanding, strengthen bilateral relations, and unleash enormous cultural and economic potential. It is critical to recognize this big project's ambition and the many benefits it provides as we watch it come to life.

Although Australia and India have a long history of working together, the founding of CAIR crystallizes a forward-thinking strategy that goes beyond conventional diplomacy. The centre’s goal to strengthen trade links and assist the Indian diaspora is a reflection of its sophisticated understanding of modern global dynamics. CAIR seeks to close gaps, promote communication, and enable a more integrated engagement between the two countries by establishing itself as a centre for bilateral cooperation. The goal of increasing economic engagement lies at the heart of CAIR's mandate. India is a place of opportunity due to its fast expanding technological landscape and thriving economy. Swati Dave emphasizes the importance of educating the Australian business community about India's economic potential. She names India's development, technical innovations, and highly qualified labour force as important elements securing India's position as vital economically. This story is essential for giving Australian companies confidence and motivating them to redouble their efforts in exploring the Indian market.

The pursuit of a Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Australia and India serves to bolster the economic narrative. While the comprehensive FTA is expected to create new opportunities for investment and trade, the interim agreement signed in December 2022 set the foundation. This agreement aims to build a strong framework that enables easier, more predictable economic exchanges rather than just cutting tariffs. CAIR actively engages business leaders to enhance their comprehension of modern India through programs such as the CEO and Director Network, which empowers them to make well-informed decisions that are in line with their strategic goals.

CAIR plays a role not only in economy but also in cultural diplomacy, where there is great room for meaningful cooperation. This is demonstrated by the Maitri Cultural Partnerships initiative, which creates institutional ties between the two countries' cultural sectors.

The Bábbarra Women’s Centre in Arnhem Land and Tharangini Studios in Bengaluru collaborated as artists, demonstrating the positive interactions that can result from such efforts. These cross-cultural interactions create a web of common experiences and ideals, creating a stronger sense of connection than just encouraging admiration for one another.

An important factor in these two-way ties is the Indian diaspora in Australia. This community, which is described as lively and dynamic, serves as a dynamic bridge to promote more seamless exchanges and mutual understanding between the two nations. According to the most recent census, around 976,000 Australians identify as being of Indian descent, making them a big and influential group. Their knowledge, connections, and cultural awareness are tremendous advantages for managing the intricacies of the two-way relationship. By making the most of this abundant resource, CAIR hopes to strengthen the bonds between the two countries by promoting cultural interaction and improving public conversation in India.

The history of relations between Australia and India is one of expansion, opportunity, and common goals. These principles are embodied by CAIR, which acts as a catalyst for increased participation and shared prosperity. The centre’s multipronged strategy—which includes educational support, cultural connections, and economic initiatives—reflects a thorough approach intended to handle the various facets of this bilateral relationship.

Looking ahead, CAIR's success will hinge on its capacity to adjust and react to the changing environments in both countries. To fully realize the possibilities of this collaboration, industry, academics, and the community must all play a key role, as well as the commitment of both governments. The Centre for Australia-India Relations is a shining example of what can be accomplished when countries unite behind a common goal and a dedication to mutual development in a world where interconnection and cooperation are becoming more and more prevalent.

Australia’s visa reforms aim to safeguard education excellence amid migration challenges

By Shristi Ghosh

Australia's recent changes to its visa policies, which mostly affect Indian students, represent a substantial change in the country's policies regarding immigration and overseas education. As of May 10, 2024, prospective Indian students interested in studying in Australia's prestigious universities will have to deal with more stringent financial restrictions, more stringent English language proficiency standards, and a revised Genuine Student assessment.

The decision by the Australian government to increase the minimum income required to qualify for a visa to A$29,710 is indicative of a deliberate attempt to guarantee that overseas students can support themselves while they study. This action, which equates to 75% of the federal minimum wage, attempts to allay worries about a spike in immigration that will occur if COVID-19 limits are loosened in 2022. The consequent strain on housing and infrastructure forced policymakers to reconsider their visa regulations.

Prospective students may first find these changes difficult, but in the end, they help to protect the integrity and caliber of Australia's overseas education programs. The government aims to address potential problems caused by insufficient financial support by making students prove they have enough money, which will

improve international students' overall educational experience.

Furthermore, Australia's determination to upholding strict requirements for English competence among its international student population is further demonstrated by the resumption of the TOEFL iBT for visa reasons. This choice guarantees that students have the language proficiency required for success in their academic endeavors and beyond, in keeping with the country's illustrious history of academic achievement.

Another notable alteration to Australia's visa framework is the move from the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria to the Genuine Student (GS) assessment. Authorities hope to improve the integrity of the visa process by better evaluating the sincerity of applicants' intentions by substituting focused inquiries for a more comprehensive review. This action preserves legitimate students' access to Australia's topnotch educational system while taking preventative measures against possible abuse or misuse of student visas.

Beyond the immediate effects on overseas students, though, these changes to the visa program also signify more significant changes to Australia's immigration policy. Concerns over rising migration, especially from international students, have forced the government to review its policies in an effort to relieve the strain on housing and infrastructure. According to the government's migration strategy, the planned decrease in the number of immigrants represents a deliberate attempt to find a middle ground between encouraging foreign education and controlling the socioeconomic effects of migration.

It is critical to acknowledge the priceless contributions that

overseas students have made to Australia's academic landscape, economy, and cultural diversity as the country navigates these changes. With annual economic contributions in the billions, international education is one of Australia's biggest export sectors. Beyond financial concerns, foreign students contribute to the academic environment by encouraging collaboration and cross-cultural exchange that benefits both local and foreign students.

Furthermore, Australia's dedication to offering avenues for talented graduates to contribute to the country's workforce is highlighted by the upcoming modifications to Temporary Graduate visas. Although some people may find it difficult to comply with the revised eligibility requirements and visa durations, the ultimate goal is to expedite the process of obtaining permanent residency for individuals who have the abilities and credentials required to make a meaningful contribution to Australia's economy and society. Australia's new visa regulations are an attempt to strike a balance between controlling the socioeconomic effects of migration and maintaining the integrity and quality of its foreign education industry. Prospective students and graduates may need to adjust to these changes, but in the end, they help to maintain sustainable migration levels and reinforce Australia's standing as a global leader in education. Maintaining the values of justice, openness, and inclusivity is crucial as stakeholders negotiate these changes in order to make sure that Australia continues to be a welcoming country for skilled migrants and students from all over the world.

(The writer is a journalist and political commentator. Views expressed are her own)

Rising heat waves in India: A call for Urgent global action

By RK Sharma

India is grappling with a formidable adversary and it is the problem of rising temperatures. The recent surge in heat waves across the country, particularly in Delhi and several northern states, underscores the urgent need for concerted global efforts to combat climate change and mitigate its adverse

effects. As temperatures soar to unprecedented levels, it's imperative to delve into the underlying causes, assess the implications, and advocate for immediate action to safeguard lives and the environment.

Escalating heat waves

The recent record-breaking temperatures in Delhi's Mungeshpur, reaching a staggering 52.3°C, epitomize the severity of the heat wave conditions gripping the nation. Despite temporary respite brought by dust storms and light rains, the relentless onslaught of scorching heat persists, exacerbating power demands

and straining essential services. The India Meteorological Department's 'red' alert for multiple states underscores the gravity of the situation, signaling imminent danger and urging preemptive measures.

Climate change and environmental degradation

The escalating frequency and intensity of heat waves in India are symptomatic of broader environmental malaise exacerbated by climate change and environmental degradation. Climate researchers attribute this alarming trend to a confluence of

Continued on next page...

Bharat’s security prowess unsettles West-centric global security dynamics

New Delhi, May 28 (IANS) Over the past year, India has found itself at the epicentre of Western allegations, coupled with old friend camaraderie with Pakistani generals accusing Indian officials of undermining the sovereignties of nations by purportedly engaging in the termination of terrorists in Canada, the US, and Pakistan.

This intimidating interest in alleged Indian clandestine security operations, raises pivotal questions about the underlying motives and the broader global dynamics at play. Concurrently, it signals India's ascendance in the realm of global security as a revitalised and influential force, unsettling the traditional Westcentric world order.

In an era where the global threat landscape is increasingly complex, global and interconnected, India's extraordinary criminal justice measures to neutralise terrorists over the past decade - such as

the September 29, 2016 surgical strike on terror launchpads across the Line of Control in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and the 2019 airstrike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot, Pakistan - are particularly significant.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, these operations had shed the "outdated and reluctant" image of Indian security agencies of the past, showcasing new India's capability and resolve. The operations were conducted with a notable degree of professionalism, responsibility and transparency, as the Indian PM informed his Pakistani counterpart before disclosing them to the world. These actions not only announced Bharat's arrival as a formidable security force, but also challenged the traditional West-centric world order.

Recent Western allegations, devoid of substantive evidence as seen in opinion-heavy

reporting of 'The Guardian' claiming India's role in tens of terrorist terminations in Pakistan, a covert unseen Five Eyes network intelligence report regarding the killing of Canadian terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and subsequent local vote-bank influence as evidenced in Canada, along with the case involving the alleged attempted assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the US-based face of the proscribed terrorist entity Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), appear to be part of a broader strategy aimed at exerting collective pressure and undermining India's assertive stance against terrorism.

India which has long been a victim of cross-border terrorism orchestrated by Pakistan and its extensive global terror network, which includes Canadian and American terrorists.

Canadian terrorists like Talwinder Singh Parmar of Babbar Khalsa masterminded the 1985 bombing of Air India Flight 182, claiming 329 innocent lives.

Similarly, American terrorists like David Coleman Headley and his Canadian accomplice Tahawwur Rana played pivotal roles in the dastardly 2008 Mumbai attacks by Lashkar-e-Taiba, resulting in 175 deaths and over 300 injuries.

More recent attacks, such as the 2016 Uri assault by Pakistanbacked Jaish-e-Mohammed, which killed 19 Indian soldiers

and injured 30, and the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing by Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkare-Taiba, which took the lives of over 40 Indian police personnel, underscore the persistent threat India faces.

In this context, India's measures acknowledged criminal justice measures like those listed above to protect itself are not only moral and lawful but also a national security imperative. However, the coordinated Western and Pakistani allegations involving unravelings like Nijjar's assassination in Canada, an attempted assassination of Pannun, and tens of terrorist killings in Pakistan appear more fixed on challenging the newfound capabilities of India's security apparatus under Prime Minister Modi. This stance appears discordant with traditional security superpowers that often perceive national security as their exclusive domain.

Most importantly, India's strategic partnerships with various nations, including those in the West, are built on mutual respect and shared interests. These alliances are grounded in a mutual commitment to promoting global stability, economic development, and security. However, for these relationships to thrive and be truly effective, they must be free from unwarranted accusations and intimidation that can

undermine trust and cooperation. Unsubstantiated allegations and politicised narratives not only strain diplomatic ties but also detract from the collaborative efforts needed to combat terrorism effectively.

By fostering an environment of mutual trust and respect, Western nations and India can work together to dismantle terrorist networks, prevent radicalisation and enhance global security. In conclusion, it is imperative that Western nations avoid actions that could be perceived as coercive or dismissive of India's security concerns. Instead, they should prioritize engagement that is based on equality, respect, and a shared commitment to eradicating terrorism. By doing so, they not only reinforce their alliances with India but also bolster the collective ability to address and overcome the multifaceted challenges posed by terrorism in the 21st century. It is time for the international community to support India's efforts to create a secure and stable world, acknowledging that a strong and secure Bharat is beneficial for global peace and prosperity.

(The author is the research director of Delhi based thinktank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

Results of LS polls to impact future prospects of leaders of all three political fronts in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, May 29 (IANS) With the counting of votes in the Lok Sabha elections slated in less than a week from now, leaders of all three political fronts in Kerala will be spending anxious moments as they await the results, which will weigh heavily on their futures.

...continued from previous page factors, including altered global weather patterns, diminishing non-monsoon thunderstorms, and the proliferation of El Niño phenomena. Moreover, warm westerly winds from neighbouring Pakistan exacerbate the heat, amplifying its deleterious effects on ecosystems and human health. Global responsibility and urgent

In the 2019 polls, the Congressled United Democratic Front was way ahead of its rivals, winning 19 out of the state's 20 seats, while Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's CPI-M-led Left Democratic Front managed just one and the BJP’s best performance was finishing second in Thiruvananthapuram and a distant third in the remaining seats.

For the Congress, any fall in its numbers could see sparks flying as things are not that rosy in its state unit where the two key leaders - state party President K. Sudhakaran and Leader of Opposition V.D.Satheesan - have, time and again, had sparred on several issues, as both of them are from different factions in the party. The pressure would be

measures

As India grapples with the repercussions of rising temperatures, it's imperative for the global community to recognize its shared responsibility in combating climate change and safeguarding vulnerable populations. The escalating heat waves underscore the imperative for immediate and concerted action, including robust

more on Sudhakaran, as he faced a stiff battle to retain his Kannur Lok Sabha seat.

However, UDF convenor M.M. Hassan, who was the acting state party chief during the elections, after a meeting of top leaders, again asserted that the alliance is winning all 20 seats.

On the other hand, Vijayan, who despite his health, travelled all across Kerala to campaign for the LDF, will be the real winner if he can improve upon the one seat that they won in 2019 but will be in deep trouble if the UDF's optimism turns out to be wellplaced.

Likewise, for the state BJP President K. Surendran, the results will be a test of credibility for never has a BJP Prime Minister campaigned in Kerala for the Lok Sabha polls, like PM

mitigation efforts, sustainable development initiatives, and enhanced international cooperation. Urgent measures, such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, implementing stringent emissions regulations, and fostering climate-resilient infrastructure, are imperative to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and secure a sustainable future for all.

Narendra Modi. Even though PM Modi, in his initial visits, said the BJP's share of seats in the state would be in double digits, he did not repeat this when he visited later at the height of campaigning. The BJP is hopeful of Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur, but both Congress and CPI-M have repeatedly dismissed its chances, saying that it will finish only in third place at all the 20 seats. Surendran also has a personal stake as he is pitted against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat, which the latter won by a staggering margin of over 4.37 lakh votes in 2019.

Political analyst Gopakumar said as things stand, it is the Congress-led UDF, which should be doing well as there was a strong anti-incumbency

The escalating heat waves in India serve as a clarion call for urgent global action to combat climate change and mitigate its adverse effects. As temperatures soar to unprecedented levels and communities grapple with the debilitating consequences of extreme heat, it's incumbent upon the global community to prioritize climate action, foster international cooperation, and enact transformative policies

sentiment against the Vijayan government in the state and a few issues against the BJP-led Centre. Vijayan has ducked the media after casting his vote on April 26, when all the state's seats went to the polls and after his three-nation private family trip raked up a controversy, he is, in all likelihood, unlikely to surface until the results come out. If the LDF can increase its share, Vijayan, who led it to an unprecedented second consecutive term in power in the 2021 Assembly elections, will certainly have the last laugh. Even for Surendran, if the lotus blooms in Kerala for the first time, he too will be flying high. However, if Hassan’s words come true, then Sudhakaran and Satheesan would be found smiling.

to safeguard lives, ecosystems, and the planet. Only through collective action and unwavering commitment can we navigate the challenges posed by climate change and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

(The author is a journalist who writes on issues related to the environment and climate change. The views expressed are his own.)

Widespread 5G spectrum availability to add $27 billion to India’s

New Delhi, May 21 (IANS)

The widespread availability of spectrum for 5G is likely to contribute about $27 billion to India's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030, a GSMA report said on Tuesday.

The organisation, which represents mobile networks worldwide, said the upper 6 GHz band must also be part of the

spectrum roadmap of the country.

According to Luciana Camargos, Head of Spectrum for the GSMA, India’s 5G momentum has gained global attention and respect.

"For it to continue, and for the full realisation of the Indian government’s digital ambitions, a clear roadmap to deliver spectrum for growing mobile demand is needed," Camargos said in a statement.

"The upper 6 GHz band must be part of that roadmap and bringing it into commercial use will require close collaboration between government and the mobile industry."

India is among the fastestgrowing markets for 5G globally.

The 5G users in the country are using nearly 3.6 times as much mobile data traffic compared to 4G since its launch in October 2022 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The 5G device ecosystem in India is rapidly evolving, with approximately 17 per cent of active 4G devices, totalling 134 million out of 796 million, now being 5G capable, according to the 'Nokia Mobile Broadband Index' report.

The launch of 5G has emerged as a significant catalyst for the growth in data usage.

Google’s parent company Alphabet earned over Rs 2.5 lakh per second in Q1

New Delhi, May 21 (IANS) After seeing its net profit drop by almost 35 per cent in 2022 due to inflation and advertisers' pullbacks, Google's parent, Alphabet, has been on a trajectory of growth for the past year and a half, earning $3,042 (nearly Rs 2,53,444) per second in the year's first quarter (Q1), or 43 per cent more than in 2023, as per a report on Tuesday.

According to data presented by AltIndex.com, Google's parent firm net income soared by 615 per cent in a decade, 8 times more than Apple's and twice as much as Microsoft's.

"In 2023 alone, Google laid off around 12,000 people or 6 per cent of its global workforce, and the layoffs continued this year. Although the company spent over $2.1 billion on severance and other expenses caused by the massive wave of job cuts, its revenue, and net income still significantly increased and hit an all-time high this year," the report noted.

As per Statista and the official company data, Alphabet's net income for the three months

ending March 31, 2024, was $23.6 billion, 57 per cent more than in the same period a year before.

In addition to witnessing its net income hit an all-time high, Google's parent company added $430 billion to its stock value year-to-date, the report mentioned.

Alphabet's market cap in January was $1.76 trillion. Since then, the figure has increased by 24 per cent and reached $2.19 trillion last week, which is 2 per cent more than Amazon's stock price growth, twice as much as Microsoft's growth, and only 5 per cent less than Meta's growth over this period, according to the report.

India-assembled flagship Range Rovers arriving soon, says company

Mumbai, May 24 (IANS) In a fillip to the government's 'Make in India" initiative, Tata Motorsowned Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) on Friday said it plans to start assembling the flagship Range Rover model, along with Range Rover Sport, in India for the first time, significantly bringing down the prices.

The company’s Pune plant currently assembles the Range Rover Velar, Range Rover Evoque, Jaguar F-PACE, and Discovery Sport models.

The India-assembled Range Rovers will be available for delivery by the end of this month while Range Rover Sport will arrive in the market by August.

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, said the local assembly of the flagship models "marks an inflection point for the India subsidiary and shows the confidence the company has in the market".

According to the company,

the first delivery of the locally manufactured Range Rover will begin May 24.

The move, according to the company, is likely to reduce prices by 18 to 22 per cent.

Certain reports mentioned that the prices may come down by up to Rs 56 lakh.

Geraldine Ingham, Managing Director of Range Rover, said they are seeing the “highest levels of client demand” for Range Rover in their 53-year history and "India is a very important part of this success story."

JLR clocked Rs 4,000 crore in revenue in India in FY24, with total sales at 4,500 units.

If I had such an atmosphere, I would’ve become a startup entrepreneur: Amitabh Kant

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts in promoting the startup sector in India, G20 Sherpa and former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant has said if such an atmosphere had existed during his time, "I would never have sat for the IAS exam and would have become a startup entrepreneur instead".

Speaking to IANS at the 'Vishesh Sampark Abhiyan' event in the national capital, Kant said the biggest thing the PM Modi government did in the last decade is that it relaxed rules and regulations for startups so they could grow.

"Startup India was launched by PM Modi on January 16, 2016.

Since then, India has seen an entrepreneurial boom with over 1,30,000 startups, more than 115 unicorns, and a $350 billion valuation," he said.

The G20 Sherpa further mentioned that the change that has occurred in the last decade could have taken about 50 years to achieve, but "due to the efforts of the present government, it has become possible in the last 10 years".

In a post on X, Kant wrote that it's" inspiring to see young minds at #ViksitBharat speak of an India filled with opportunity".

"Under PM @narendramodi's leadership, India's last decade has been one of tremendous tech innovation, incubation, and transformation," he added.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar said that after a robust decade of innovation and digital growth, the next 10 years will see India on the global map for emerging technologies, be it artificial intelligence (AI) or highperformance computing.

SpiceJet to seek refund of Rs 450 cr from Kalanithi Maran after Delhi HC ruling

New Delhi, May 22 (IANS)

Following the Delhi High Court ruling, SpiceJet has announced plans to seek a refund of Rs 450 crore from former promoter Kalanithi Maran and his firm, KAL Airways.

A division bench’s order overturned a previous singlejudge order in the prolonged share transfer dispute.

SpiceJet and its promoter, Ajay Singh, have been embroiled in the case against Maran and KAL Airways over issues stemming from a share transfer agreement.

On May 17, the division bench ruled in favour of SpiceJet, allowing the airline to reclaim a substantial portion of the Rs 730 crore previously paid. This sum included Rs 580 crore in principal and an additional Rs 150 crore in

interest.

The single-judge bench had allegedly dismissed their Section 34 petitions without addressing key claims of patent illegality and unjustified interest charges.

The division bench found merit in these challenges, citing that the single judge had not given due consideration to these critical issues.

"The single judge had erred in dismissing the Section 34 petitions of Ajay Singh and SpiceJet without adequately considering the claims of patent illegality and the refund order passed against SpiceJet," the court noted.

Furthermore, it was said that penal interest had been charged despite SpiceJet not being in breach of the Share Purchase Agreement.

The reversal of the July 31, 2023, judgment positions SpiceJet to recover Rs 450 crore, offering a significant financial reprieve for the airline.

Tata Group, Serum Institute of India in Time’s world’s top 100 most influential companies’ list

run Serum Institute of India (SII) have been recognised among the top 100 ‘World’s Most Influential Companies of 2024’ by Time magazine.

While the Tata Group was included in the list under the ‘Titans’ category, Pune-based SII was part of the ‘Pioneers’ section.

“Founded in 1868, the Tata Group long ago cemented its place in India’s economy, its vast portfolio extending from steel, software, watches, subsea cables, and chemicals, to salt, grains, airconditioners, fashion, and hotels,” according to the company’s description by the magazine in its list.

As rivals have aggressively courted new businesses, it struggled to keep up with stiff competition.

In 2017, after over a century of family management, the “hightech pivot” N. Chandrasekaran took over as Chairman of Tata

Group despite having no personal ties to the family -- highly unusual when India’s business landscape is ruled by family succession plans.

As chair, he has transformed the group by investing in tech manufacturing, AI, and semiconductor chips.

New Delhi, May 21 (IANS) Hailing

New Delhi, May 30 (IANS) Tata Group and the Adar Poonawalla-

National Reconciliation Week 2024: Now more than ever, a call for unity and action

The 2024 National Reconciliation Week (NRW), during 27 May – 3 June 2024, themed Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all Australians that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will—and must— continue.

NRW is a time for all to learn about Australia’s shared histories, cultures, and achievements while learning how to contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

Reconciliation Australia, a not-for-profit organisation facilitating reconciliation between wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, urges multicultural communities to join hands in tacking the unfinished business of reconciliation the NRW week

With 6.2 million Australians voting YES at the recently conducted Referendum, there is evidence of

200th birth anniversary of Arya Samaj founder Maharishi Swami Dayanand celebrated

the community’s commitment to better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. But many members of the migrant community still seem to be unsure of the issues

Reconciliation Australia

CEO Karen Mundine further highlighted these issues, saying, “It is clear that while migrant communities have a high level of empathy and nascent support for reconciliation and justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, there is also less information available in the languages spoken by these communities.”

Reconciliation Australia recognises this importance and has therefore translated a number of resources and made them available for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities to provide background information on reconciliation and the NRW. These resources are available

Brisbane, May 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The 200th Jayanti birth anniversary celebration of

Maharishi Swami Dayanand, the founder of Arya Samaj, was organized recently in a grand ceremony in Brisbane.

Attended by a distinguished gathering, including the team of the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland and other guests, the celebration paid homage to the life and teachings of Maharishi Swami Dayanand.

The event was marked by reverence and reflection, as attendees commemorated the profound impact of Maharishi Swami Dayanand 's teachings on spirituality, social reform, and cultural revival.

Australia India Institute to host inaugural Australia India Renewables Dialogue

Melbourne, May 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Australia India Institute has announced plans to host the inaugural Australia India Renewables Dialogue (AIRD) on July 16 in Sydney. The aim of the dialogue is to unlock innovative opportunities that will aid both countries in decarbonizing their economies.

to download from the following link: https://www.reconciliation. org.au/our-work/nationalreconciliation-week/translatedresources. These are available in Arabic, Greek, Italian, Korean, Punjabi, simplified Chinese, Spanish, Thai, traditional Chinese, and Vietnamese.

CEO Karen Mundine thanked the leaders of Australia’s migrant communities for their ongoing support and pledged that Reconciliation Australia would continue to focus on working with Australia’s diverse migrant communities.

"Now more than ever, the work continues. In treaty making, in truth-telling, in understanding our history, in education, and in tackling racism. We need connection. We need respect. We need action. And we need change. Now more than ever, we need reconciliation."

Deo Family Charitable Foundation commemorates Girmit Remembrance Day

Brisbane, May 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Deo Family Charitable Foundation recently hosted an event to commemorate Girmit Remembrance Day in Brisbane. Attended by members of the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland

and other guests, the event was an occasion to pay tribute to a significant chapter in history.

Girmit Remembrance Day holds profound significance, marking the arrival of the first Indian indentured laborers in Britishadministered Fiji in 1879. Over nearly four decades, from 1879

In collaboration with Investment NSW and the Confederation of Indian Industry, the AIRD will run alongside the Australian Clean Energy Summit. Representatives from both the Australian and Indian governments are expected to participate, with Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen MP, and High Commissioner of India, Gopal Baglay, among the notable attendees.

The dialogue follows on from discussions held at the Australia India Leadership Dialogue last November and the Australia India Clean Energy Roundtable in Mumbai in February. This initiative aligns with the Australia India Institute's Sustainable Economies pillar, which focuses on promoting sustainability in bilateral trade and investment.

to 1916, approximately 60,000 Indians were recruited to toil on sugarcane plantations under conditions reminiscent of slavery.

The Deo Family Charitable Foundation's initiative underscores the importance of preserving and commemorating history.

Lisa Singh appointed as ambassador for Cricket Australia’s multicultural program

Melbourne, May 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

In a significant step towards promoting diversity and inclusion in cricket, Lisa Singh, CEO of

the Australia India Institute and former Senator, has been appointed as an ambassador for Cricket Australia's Multicultural Ambassador Program.

The newly unveiled program aims to champion diversity and inclusivity within the realm of sports, with a particular focus on cricket. This initiative comes at a pivotal moment as Australians of South Asian cultural backgrounds emerge as the fastest-growing demographic in the country over the past decade.

Despite this demographic surge, representation in cricket often falls short of reflecting the community's diversity.

Acknowledging this disparity,

the Multicultural Ambassador Program is committed to bridging the gap by creating opportunities for participation, breaking down barriers, building trust, nurturing relationships, and driving meaningful change.

The Australia India Institute, in expressing support for the initiative, underscores the importance of promoting inclusivity and unity both on and off the cricket pitch. With a shared passion for the sport and a deepening bond between Australia and India, the Institute foresees South Asian communities thriving in cricket, further strengthening the ties between the two nations through the universal language of sports.

Canberra, May 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay paid a visit to the Australian War Memorial, recently, offering a tribute to the valorous servicemen and women from both Australia and India who

Indian High Commissioner honours fallen heroes at Australian War Memorial Cultural extravaganza Indradhanush delights Perth audience

stood shoulder-to-shoulder in times of conflict.

Participating in the revered Last Post Ceremony, High Commissioner Baglay, accompanied by dignitaries and representatives, laid floral tributes at the memorial's grounds, symbolizing reverence for the sacrifices made by brave soldiers from both nations. Remembering the shared history of cooperation and camaraderie between Australia and India in times of strife, High Commissioner Baglay underscored the enduring bond forged on the battlefield.

Perth, May 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Hindi Samaj HSWA recently treated Perth to a vibrant cultural showcase, "Indradhanush," featuring a kaleidoscope of performances celebrating India's rich heritage and artistic diversity.

Attendees were treated to folk, semi-classical, and contemporary dance performances by renowned groups, including Jhankaar, Academy Of Indian Classical

and Bollywood Dance, Gurukul WA, and Uttar Pradesh Awadh Manch WA (UPAM). The event also featured a skit performed by community elders from Sanskriti Seniors, evoking applause from the audience.

Adding to the evening's charm were captivating duet Hindi songs presented by local singers.

Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi commended the Hindi Samaj of WA for its pioneering efforts in promoting the Hindi language and providing robust platforms such as KalamDawaat and Sahitya Baithak for local Hindi writers and poets to showcase their literary contributions. He also highlighted the vital role played by Pathshalla in imparting Hindi language education to schoolchildren, emphasizing the importance of preserving linguistic heritage and cultural traditions.

Bengali Society of Queensland celebrates Rabindra Nazrul Sondhya

Brisbane, May 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Bengali Society of Queensland Inc (BSQ Inc) organized a cultural event, Rabindra Nazrul Sondhya, on May 11, showcasing the rich literary heritage of Bengal.

The event served as a tribute to the timeless contributions of literary luminaries Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam, who continue to inspire generations with their profound poetry and prose. Additionally, it honoured the enduring legacy of these eminent prophets of Bengal, whose teachings resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.

BSQ Inc, a prominent cultural

organization, has been at the forefront of propagating Bengali culture and preserving the Bengali language in Brisbane. Through events like Rabindra Nazrul Sondhya, the organization endeavours to keep the memories of literary geniuses alive while fostering a sense of community among Bengali diaspora members and enthusiasts.

The evening was marked by soulful renditions of Rabindra Sangeet and Nazrul Geeti, as well as recitations of poetry and prose by talented performers. Attendees were treated to a delightful immersion into the enchanting world of Bengali literature and music, celebrating the richness and diversity of Bengali culture.

Basava Samithi Perth hosts Basava Jayanti celebration

Perth, May 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Basava Samithi Perth recently hosted Basava Jayanti celebration, drawing together a gathering of guests and community members to honour the legacy of Basaveshwara.

Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi attended the event. The event served as a fitting tribute to Basaveshwara, renowned for his profound teachings and contributions to society.

Attendees were treated to an array of cultural performances by community kids, youth, and elders, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and artistic talents of the community. From

traditional dances to soulstirring music, the performances enthralled the audience, evoking a sense of pride and admiration.

In addition to the cultural extravaganza, the celebration

also featured a discourse on the teachings of Basaveshwara, providing attendees with valuable insights into his timeless wisdom and principles of social justice and equality.

Melbourne welcomes first batch of dual degree students for two-week immersion visit

Melbourne, May 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, alongside Deputy Director of Study Melbourne Caroline Hartnett and dignitaries from BITS-RMIT Higher Education Academy, extended a warm

welcome to the inaugural cohort of 92 students enrolled in the dual degree Bachelor in Engineering program during their two-week immersion visit to Melbourne. The event marked a significant milestone in academic collaboration between the two

institutions, providing students with invaluable networking opportunities with industry professionals, BITS alumni, and academia. This immersive experience aimed to acquaint students with Melbourne's multicultural society while facilitating their transition

to RMIT Melbourne in 2025 for the continuation of their academic journey under the 2+2 arrangement.

Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar engaged in fruitful discussions with a high-level joint delegation from BITS-RMIT Higher Education Academy, highlighting

the ongoing collaboration between the globally recognized institutions. Among the topics of discussion was the innovative dual degree program for Bachelor in Engineering courses, emblematic of the commitment to fostering academic excellence and global partnerships.

New CAIR headquarters inaugurated in Parramatta

Sydney, May 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Trade Minister Don Farrell led the inauguration ceremony of the new Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR) headquarters in Parramatta, marking a significant milestone in bilateral ties between the two nations.

Attended by a diverse array of business and local community leaders, the launch event

underscored the high anticipation surrounding CAIR's potential impact on the Australia-India relationship. The establishment of CAIR aims to foster deeper partnerships and collaboration across government, business, academia, and cultural sectors.

Supported by both the Australian and New South Wales Governments, CAIR will serve as a pivotal hub for driving partnership opportunities

between the two nations, with its inception in 2023 under the leadership of Swati Dave as Chair. Key announcements during the event included the launch of the Maitri Scholars and Fellowships programs, along with Cultural Partnerships. Maitri Scholars and Fellows will embark on research projects focusing on shared geostrategic and economic futures, contributing to a deeper understanding of the bilateral

relationship.

Penny Wong emphasized the importance of engaging closely with Indian-Australian communities and understanding contemporary realities in India, highlighting the significance of fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

Tim Thomas, CEO of CAIR, expressed enthusiasm for the new headquarters in Parramatta, emphasizing its potential impact

as a vibrant innovation ecosystem and a focal point for the IndianAustralian community.

Don Farrell highlighted the economic benefits of trade with India, announcing additional funding for the Australia India Business Exchange. Austrade will lead new business missions to India and pilot missions to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, further expanding trade opportunities across South Asia.

Melbourne embraces the spirit of yoga ahead of 10th I-Day of Yoga

Melbourne, May 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

A vibrant curtain raiser for the 10th International Day of Yoga illuminated Albert Park recently,

drawing enthusiasts from all walks of life to partake in the rejuvenating practice of yoga and meditation. Amidst the serene surroundings

of Albert Park, participants embraced the opportunity to nurture their bodies, minds, and spirits through the timeless art of yoga, fostering a sense of holistic well-being and inner tranquility.

Also, a curtain raiser event unfolded at the Indian Consulate, where the essence of yoga transcended borders as yoga expert Ajay Kumbhar led a virtual session from India. Participants

gathered at the Consulate immersed themselves in the invigorating practice under the expert guidance of Ajay Kumbhar.

Indian community honours Rabindranath Tagore on 163rd Birth Anniversary

Perth, May 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Indian community in Perth came together to pay heartfelt tributes to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore on his 163rd birth anniversary at a remarkable

event organized by the Bengali Association of Western Australia (BAWA), in collaboration with the Consulate.

During the event, community children showcased their talent by reciting several poems of

Gurudev in their original Bangla language, both individually and collectively. Additionally, community youth and elders captivated the audience with their performances of soulful Rabindra sangeet, traditional dances, and melodious songs.

Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi praised the efforts of BAWA for preserving Gurudev's legacy and consistently promoting the rich cultural heritage of Bengal through music, dance, poetry, and

literature within the community. He highlighted the importance of embracing the values of universal humanism espoused by Gurudev, which continue to resonate across generations.

Celebrating Queensland’s volunteer heroes: Highlights from the 2024 Queensland Volunteering Awards

Brisbane, May 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Brisbane City Hall became the epicenter of appreciation and gratitude on May 22 as Queensland's volunteers and organizations were honoured at the 2024 Queensland Volunteering Awards. The event, held annually, is an occasion to remember the invaluable contributions made by volunteers across the state. With awards presented across six categories, the ceremony aimed to shine a spotlight on the diverse efforts and impactful initiatives undertaken by Queensland's volunteer community. Here are the highlights:

Queensland Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award

The prestigious award was bestowed upon Allan Quartermaine OAM in recognition of his remarkable service to community organizations, spanning over six decades. Quartermaine's unwavering commitment and leadership, particularly within Legacy, exemplify the essence of volunteerism. The other finalists in this category were Douglas Alexander, and Jennifer Hausler.

Queensland Youth Volunteer of the Year Award

Tobias Kennet emerged as a beacon of youthful dedication, receiving accolades for his exceptional service across

multiple organizations, including the YMCA, Scouts QLD, and the Queensland Youth Parliament. Kennet's passion for volunteering underscores the transformative impact of youth engagement in community initiatives. The other finalists in this category were Parris Smith, and Susanna Allegra Serena Nutley.

Queensland Excellence in Volunteer Management Award

Vicki Meyer's outstanding management of volunteer services for Inclusee, a virtual social support services for older Australians, earned her welldeserved recognition. Meyer's focus on engagement and inclusion has fostered a sense of community and empowerment among volunteers, setting a high standard for volunteer management. The other finalists in this category were Maree Adams, and Nyree Johnson.

Queensland Volunteering Impact Award

Care Kits for Kids Qld Inc was celebrated for its significant contributions to supporting children in care or crisis through the provision of care kits. The organization's dedication to meeting the immediate needs of vulnerable children showcases the profound impact of grassroots initiatives in addressing community challenges. The other finalists in this category were 3rd Space, and Palliative Care Qld –Ambulance Wish.

Queensland Corporate Volunteering Award Auto & General's commitment to embedding volunteering in its company culture was commended, reflecting the organization's dedication to employee engagement in community initiatives. The award underscores the importance of corporate social responsibility in fostering positive social change. The other finalist in this category was Preferred Care.

Queensland Volunteer of the Year Award

to supporting

through the Youth Music Venture charity and his extensive community engagement efforts earned him the title of Volunteer of the Year. Grace's unwavering passion for enriching the lives of others serves as an inspiration to all volunteers. The other finalists in this category were Brian Procopis, and Dr Sudipto Roy. While these exemplary individuals and organizations were rightfully honoured, it's essential to recognize the collective efforts of Queensland's volunteer community. From addressing homelessness to supporting youth leadership and fulfilling final wishes for patients with lifelimiting conditions, volunteers across the state play a crucial role in building stronger, more inclusive communities.

As Queensland continues to navigate through challenges and opportunities, the spirit of volunteerism remains a guiding light, illuminating pathways to positive change and community resilience. The 2024 Queensland Volunteering Awards serve as a testament to the power of individuals and organizations coming together in service of others, embodying the true essence of community spirit.

Queensland man fined for providing false information during 2022 federal election

Brisbane, May 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Vivian Rakesh Lobo, a 42-year-old man from Queensland, has been fined $1000 for providing false information to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) during the 2022 Federal Election period. The sentencing took place in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on May 30, following Lobo's charge by summons on January 30, 2024.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) charged Lobo after an investigation prompted by a referral from the AEC. The referral raised concerns about false or misleading information regarding residential addresses provided by Lobo and his family during the election period. Lobo, who stood as a candidate in the 2022 Federal Election, admitted to knowingly providing false or misleading information, contrary

Consulate hosts curtain raiser event to kick off IDY celebrations

Perth, May 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

In an effort to promote the health benefits of the ancient science of yoga, the Consulate recently organized its first Curtain Raiser event to mark the beginning of the International Day of Yoga celebrations. The event took place at the Institute of Health and Nursing Australia in Perth, where Australian nursing students eagerly participated in yoga sessions.

The nursing students showed great enthusiasm in embracing yoga practice and even enrolled for weekly sessions following the event. This initiative aims to introduce the practitioners committed to good health to the holistic benefits of yoga, encouraging them to incorporate it into their regular wellness routines.

to section 137.1(1) of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth), during his guilty plea on April 5, 2024.

In addition to the $1000 fine, Lobo was placed on a two-year good behaviour bond. During the sentencing, the court learned that Lobo submitted four forms to the commission with the Everton Park address, despite actually residing with his wife and family at a Newmarket Road home, which they purchased in 2017.

Ian Grace's tireless dedication

young musicians

IPL 2024: KKR outplay SRH to win final by eight wickets, clinch third title

Chennai, May 26 (IANS) Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) outplayed Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in all departments to clinch their third IPL championship with a comprehensive eight-wicket win in a relatively one-sided IPL 2024 title clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.

KKR’s bowlers, led by stellar spells from Andre Russell (3-19), Mitchell Starc (2-14) & Harshit Rana (2-24), bowled out SRH for just 113, the lowest total in an IPL final. In reply, the batters, led by Venkatesh Iyer’s 52 not out off 26 balls, chased down the total in just 10.3 overs to make it the

second time the side won an IPL title in Chennai.

Chasing 114, KKR lost Sunil Narine cheaply when he went too early in his flick off Pat Cummins and thick leading edge was caught by deep mid-wicket, after hitting a pulled six. Venkatesh launched a counter-attack by dancing down the pitch to smack Bhuvneshwar Kumar for two successive sixes, after glancing him for a four to take 20 runs off the third over.

From the other end, Rahmanullah Gurbaz brought out his cut and loft to take two fours, followed by outside edges giving him two more boundaries. Venkatesh cut and pulled fiercely off T Natrajan for consecutive fours, before flicking and swiping handsomely to take six and four respectively off the left-arm pacer, as KKR reached 72/1 at the end of powerplay, also the highest total in a six-over phase of the IPL finals. Gurbaz took over by sweeping

Shahbaz Ahmed for six and lofting the left-arm spinner for another maximum, happening on the either side of pulling Jaydev Unadkat for four. But Shahbaz had the last laugh by trapping a sweeping Gurbaz lbw.

Shreyas Iyer opened his account by reverse-sweeping Shahbaz for four, followed by Venkatesh getting his fifty in 24 balls and he fittingly finished off the chase with a single to clinch third IPL title for KKR. It also the first time Shreyas becomes an IPL winning captain on his second attempt, after being excluded from the Test team and BCCI central contracts earlier this year.

Brief Scores: Sunrisers Hyderabad 113 in 18.3 overs (Pat Cummins 24, Aiden Markram 20; Andre Russell 3-19, Mitchell Starc 2-14) lost to Kolkata Knight Riders 114/2 in 10.3 overs (Venkatesh Iyer 52 not out, Rahmanullah Gurbaz 39; Pat Cummins 1-18, Shahbaz Ahmed 1-22) by eight wickets.

IPL 2024: KKR played like ‘invincibles’ throughout the season, says skipper Shreyas Iyer

Chennai, May 27 (IANS) Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) skipper Shreyas Iyer lauded his side for playing "like invincibles throughout the season" after a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 summit clash to lift their third title, ending a decade-long wait.

"This is what we demanded from the team and every individual, they stood up on the right occasion," Iyer said after the final. "It is hard to express how we are feeling right now. The wait was so long. We played like invincibles throughout the season. There is so much to cherish right now."

KKR's bowlers, led by stellar spells from Andre Russell (3-19), Mitchell Starc (2-14) & Harshit Rana (2-24), bowled out SRH for just 113, the lowest total in an IPL final. In reply, the batters, led by Venkatesh Iyer’s 52 not out off 26 balls, chased down the total in just 10.3 overs to make it the

second time the side won an IPL title in Chennai.

KKR's 2024 campaign was one of the most dominant in IPL history, equaling the record for the fewest losses in a season, set by Shane Warne's Rajasthan Royals in 2008, with just three defeats. Topping the league table, KKR beat SRH in Qualifier 1 by eight wickets with 38 balls to spare, and upped their game in the final with another eight-wicket victory, this time with 57 balls remaining.

"It is pleasing and the performance has been flawless throughout. I am running out of words right now. We have been tremendous right from game one, and when we stepped [out], all we demanded from ourselves was to back each other no matter the situation," Iyer said of KKR's campaign.

"The game could have gone either way - they have been playing phenomenal cricket, SRH,

Queensland sign WinfieldHill for WNCL season

Brisbane, May 27 (IANS) England women's batter Lauren WinfieldHill has secured a contract with Queensland for the upcoming Women's National Cricket League (WNCL) season.

The move comes after a stellar performance in the previous season, where Winfield-Hill amassed 194 runs at an average of 32.33, including a crucial half-century that propelled Queensland to the final.

Cricket Australia (CA) contracts. The squad also sees a mix of experienced players and young talent, ensuring a balanced team capable of competing at the highest level.

Meanwhile, New South Wales have also refreshed their squad with the inclusion of four promising teenagers: Sienna Eve, Elsa Hunter, Lauren Kua, and Kate Pelle. Pelle, who made her WBBL debut last year with Sydney Sixers, is seen as a rising star in the sport.

throughout the season. Today, we were lucky enough to bowl first and, at the same time, every situation went in our favour. Thanks to SRH (for) the way they have played throughout the season. They have been simply phenomenal," he added.

The final saw KKR dominate from the outset, starting with Mitchell Starc's stunning dismissal of Abhishek Sharma with a ball that pitched on middle and leg and zipped past the outside edge to hit off stump. This wicket initiated a collapse; Vaibhav Arora removed Travis Head for a first-ball duck with an excellent away-swinger, and Starc struck again to dismiss Rahul Tripathi, leaving SRH at 21 for 3 inside five overs.

"That (big games) is when all the big players stand up," Iyer said of Starc. "It was a high-pressure game. He has been so good off the field. He has never shown any sort of complacency in his work ethic. Every time we used to go for the plunge pool, he used to be there... something for everyone to learn."

Starc's performance in the playoffs was pivotal. Despite a rough start to the season, where he conceded 100 runs in his first two games without taking a wicket, Starc rebounded to become the Player of the Match in both of KKR's playoff games, a first in IPL history.

Another standout performer was Andre Russell, who picked up 3 for 19 in 2.3 overs in the final, ending the season with his best wicket tally at the IPL. "He has got that magic wand, which he is hiding somewhere on the field. Russell has been lucky for us. Almost in a majority of the games, whenever he has bowled, he has picked up the wickets and he has given us the breakthrough," he said.

The 33-year-old will join Queensland's squad for the 202425 season after Queensland and New South Wales released their female contract lists for the new season. This was delayed due to a stand-off between Cricket Australia and the states of NSW and Victoria over the introduction of a new women's domestic T20 competition, which was finally resolved last week.

Winfield-Hill's decision to play for Queensland comes after expressing her concerns about the ECB’s postponement of Yorkshire’s entry to Tier 1 of England’s new women’s domestic competition, which she described as unsettling for her Northern Diamonds team.

Joining Winfield-Hill in the Queensland squad are notable names such as Jess Jonassen and Grace Harris, both of whom hold

Interestingly, Georgia Adams, another English player who participated in the WNCL last season with NSW, is not featured on the Blues’ contract list for this year. Despite this, Adams is expected to play a role next season. The Blues have also parted ways with Scotland international Saskia Horley, who has moved permanently to the UK.

Queensland women's contract list 2024-25: Lily Bassingthwaighte, Bonnie Berry, Lucinda Burke, Sianna Ginger, Lucy Hamilton, Grace Harris (CA contract), Nicola Hancock, Laura Harris, Kira Holmes, Jess Jonassen (CA contract),Charli Knott, Grace Parsons, Georgia Redmayne, Courtney Sippel, Georgia Voll, Lauren Winfield-Hill (overseas), Mikayla Wrigley

NSW women's contract list 202425: Jade Allen, Maitlan Brown, Erin Burns, Stella Campbell, Lauren Cheatle, Sarah Coyte, Hannah Darlington, Sienna Eve, Ashleigh Gardner (CA), Alyssa Healy (CA), Ebony Hoskin, Elsa Hunter, Sammy-Jo Johnson, Lauren Kua, Anika Learoyd, Phoebe Litchfield (CA), Claire Moore, Kate Pelle, Tahlia Wilson

Groundsmen, curators at 10 regular IPL venues to get Rs 25 lakh each: Jay Shah

New Delhi, May 27 (IANS) BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Monday announced that the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive Rs 25 lakh each while the ground staff of the three additional venues will get Rs 10 lakh each.

The 17th edition of the IPL concluded on Sunday after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) crushed Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by eight wickets at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to lift their third title in the tournament.

"The unsung heroes of our

successful T20 season are the incredible ground staff who worked tirelessly to provide brilliant pitches, even in difficult weather conditions. As a token of our appreciation, the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive INR 25 lakhs each, and the same at the 3 additional venues will get INR 10 lakhs each. Thank you for your dedication and hard work!," Shah wrote on X.

This year's IPL was played across 13 venues around the country after Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals added an extra home venue to their schedule.

Delhi played their few matches in Visakhapatnam other than Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Punjab played in Dharamsala other than Mullanpur while Rajasthan chose Guwahati as their second home ground after Jaipur.

India-US CEO Forum’s WG7 launch bilateral knowledge-sharing platform for MSMEs, startups

New Delhi, May 27 (IANS) In a bid to help Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups integrate better in the global supply chain, the India-US CEO Forum’s Working Group 7 (WG7) on Monday launched the bilateral knowledge-sharing platform between India and the US.

The ‘Nihit Knowledge Platform’ will also boost jobs, said the forum on entrepreneurship, inclusive growth and promoting small businesses, in partnership with United Services Institute (USI) and CyberPeace Foundation.

The event also saw the launch of ‘Prakshepan’, a hackathon for MSMEs and startups with a prize

pool and mentorship of over Rs 1 crore.

“The dialogue and the knowledgesharing platform will enhance the bilateral relationship and unlock trade between India and the US, promoting inclusive growth by empowering startups and integrating MSMEs in the global supply chain and fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive economy,” said Subi Chaturvedi, Chief Corporate Affairs and Public Policy Officer, Global Senior Vice President (SVP), InMobi, and Sherpa WG7.

The ‘Prakshepan’ hackathon will identify, mentor, and accelerate startups that contribute to enhancing the relationship between India and the US.

“This bilateral hackathon will focus on fostering innovation with a strong emphasis on womenled businesses, aiming for 50

per cemt female representation among participants”, said Chaturvedi.

With the aim of improving bilateral trade between India and the US, the forum brings together top businesses from both nations under the guidance of the Ministry of Commerce and the Department of Commerce from India and the US, respectively.

“I believe initiatives and dialogues like this will help foster a better relationship between the two nations, especially in trade and innovation, new and emerging future technologies and startups have a key role to play,” said Mahaveer Singhvi, Joint Secretary (new emerging and strategic technologies division), Ministry of External Affairs. The event was organised by InMobi, Mastercard and Tata Sons and supported by CyberPeace Foundation, USI and USIBC.

Musk’s AI firm xAI raises $6 bn to boost research, development of future tech

New Delhi, May 27 (IANS) Elon Musk-run artificial intelligence (AI) company xAI said on Monday that it raised $6 billion to accelerate the research and development of future technologies. The AI firm shared the development on X, and responding to this, the tech billionaire said, "There will be more to announce in the coming weeks."

In another post, Musk said the pre-money valuation was $18 billion.

The company also added that the funds from the Series B funding round will be used to take xAI's first products to market and build advanced infrastructure.

"xAI is primarily focused on the development of advanced AI systems that are truthful, competent, and maximally beneficial for all of humanity. The company's mission is to understand the true nature of the universe," the company said in a blog post.

xAI, which has unveiled an AI chatbot called 'Grok', raised funds from key investors, including

Valor Equity Partners, Vy Capital, Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, Fidelity Management & Research Company, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal and Kingdom Holding, among others. In addition, xAI said that it will announce more technology updates and products soon.

Earlier this year, xAI raised $500 million in commitments from investors toward a $1 billion goal.

Founded in 2023, xAI unveiled its first AI product in November last year and recently announced the Grok-1.5 model with long context capability, as well as Grok-1.5V with image understanding.

WIPO treaty a huge win for India, Global South: Ministry

New Delhi, May 26 (IANS) The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) treaty on intellectual property, Genetic resources (GRs) and associated traditional knowledge (ATK), is a significant win for countries of the Global South and for India, Ministry of Commerce & Industry said on Sunday.

The treaty marks the start of the journey to achieve collective growth and deliver the promise of a sustainable future, a cause which India has championed for centuries, the ministry said in a statement.

“For the first time the connection

between local communities and their GRs and ATK is recognised in the global IP community,” it added.

The treaty will not only safeguard and protect biodiversity but will increase transparency in the patent system and strengthen innovation.

Through this treaty, the IP system can continue to incentivise innovation while evolving in a more inclusive way, responding to the needs of all countries and their communities.

The treaty also marks a big win for India and the global south which has for long been a proponent of this instrument.

After two decades of negotiations and with collective support this treaty has been adopted at the multilateral fora, with a consensus among more than 150

NSE Indices unveils India’s 1st Electric Vehicle Index

Mumbai, May 30 (IANS) NSE Indices, NSE’s index services subsidiary, on Thursday launched a new Nifty EV and New Age Automotive Index, as the adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) surges

amid an increase in charging infrastructure. The EV Index aims to track the performance of companies which form a part of the EV ecosystem or are involved in the development of new age automotive vehicles or related technology, NSE Indices said in a statement. The base date for the index is April 2, 2018, and the base value is 1,000. “The Nifty EV & New Age Automotive India’s first-ever Electric Vehicle Index aligns with NSE’s vision to provide innovative indices in line with market trends,” said Mukesh Agarwal, CEO, NSE Indices.

Indian-origin researcher discovers new tech that can charge electric car in 10 min

Delhi, May 25 (IANS)

researcher

have discovered a new technology that could charge a dead laptop or phone in a minute or an electric car in 10 minutes.

In the study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the researchers discovered how tiny charged particles, called ions, move within a complex network of minuscule pores.

According to Gupta, an assistant professor of chemical and biological engineering at the US-based University of Colorado

countries.

“The treaty on ratification and entry into force will require contracting parties to put In place, mandatory disclosure obligations for patent applicants to disclose the country of origin or source of the genetic resources when the claimed invention is based on genetic resources or associated traditional knowledge,” the ministry elaborated.

At present, only 35 countries have some form of disclosure obligations, most of which are not mandatory and do not have appropriate sanctions or remedies in place for effective implementation.

“This treaty will require contracting parties, including the developed world, to bring changes in their existing legal framework for enforcing disclosure of origin obligations on patent applicants,” the ministry noted.

Boulder, this breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient energy storage devices, such as 'supercapacitors'.

The discovery is important not only for storing energy in vehicles and electronic devices but also for power grids, where fluctuating energy demand needs efficient storage to avoid waste during periods of low demand and to ensure speedy delivery during high demand, Gupta said. Supercapacitors, energy storage devices that depend on ion collection in their pores, have fast charging times and longer life spans compared to batteries, he added.

As per researchers, the primary appeal of supercapacitors lies in their speed. Before this study, ion movements were only defined in the literature in one straight pore. This discovery allows for the simulation and prediction of ion flow in a complicated network of thousands of interconnected pores in minutes, the researchers mentioned.

Artificial Intelligence may offer companionship to the lonely

New Delhi, May 27 (IANS) Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology may be key to fighting loneliness among humans, which is known to seriously impair health, according to a robotics expert.

Tony Prescott, from the University of Sheffield, UK, argues in his new book The Psychology of Artificial Intelligence that "relationships with AIs can support people" with forms of social interaction. When people feel lonely, they tend to become increasingly disconnected as their confidence plummets. AI may help "break the cycle" and give them a way to practise and improve their social

skills, said Tony, a Professor of cognitive robotics.

While many people "describe their lives as lonely, there may be value in having AI companionship as a form of reciprocal social interaction that is stimulating and personalised," Tony said. An "AI companionship could help break this cycle by scaffolding feelings of self-worth and helping maintain or improve social skills. If so, relationships with AIs could support people to find companionship with both human and artificial others," he added. In the book, the Professor explores the nature of the human mind and its cognitive processes and compares and contrasts this with the way AI is developing. He noted that the partnership of psychology and AI "can unlock further insights into both natural and artificial intelligence."

New

Indianorigin

Ankur Gupta and his team

Why regular fish oil supplements could be bad for your heart

New Delhi, May 22 (IANS) While fish oil supplements, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, are known to be good for heart health, a new study on Wednesday showed that regular consumption may raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.

For the study, an international team of researchers from China, the UK, and the US analysed the health of 415,737 participants (55 per cent women), aged 40-69, who regularly consumed oily and nonoily fish and fish oil supplements. The participants were surveyed

New

between 2006 and 2010 and tracked until the end of March 2021 or death, whichever came first, based on medical records data.

Their results, published in the open-access journal BMJ Medicine, showed that regular use of fish oil supplements had different roles in cardiovascular health, disease progression, and death.

People with no known heart problems who regularly used fish oil supplements had a 13 per cent higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation, and a 5 per cent risk of a stroke.

The risk of transitioning from good health to heart attack, stroke, or heart failure was 6 per cent higher in women and 6 per

cent higher in non-smokers. In contrast, among those with known cardiovascular disease, regular fish oil supplements lowered the risk of progression from atrial fibrillation to a heart attack by 15 per cent, and from heart failure to death by 9 per cent.

Age, sex, smoking, consumption of non-oily fish, high blood pressure, and use of statins and blood pressure-lowering drugs were found to determine the associations observed.

Calling "this is an observational study, and no conclusions can be drawn about causal factors", the researchers stressed the need for further studies to determine the precise mechanisms.

customised drug developed to fight aggressive breast cancer

New Delhi, May 22 (IANS) Using breast cancer cells' weakness against themselves, UK scientists linked a tumour-selective antibody and developed a cellkilling drug that can destroy hard-to-treat tumours.

The findings, published on Wednesday in the journal Clinical Cancer Research, target triplenegative breast cancer -- typically aggressive and resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Accounting for up to 15 per cent of all diagnosed breast cancer, it

also has a lower survival rate and is more common in women under 40.

To probe the properties of breast cancer cells linked to triplenegative breast cancer, a team from King's College London conducted data analysis using over 6,000 breast cancer samples. After understanding how the cancer cells escape from cancer drugs, they established the presence of the cancer cell surface marker EGFR along with oncogenic molecules cyclindependent kinases (CDK), which are responsible for cell division and proliferation.

Further, they linked cetuximab -- a tumour-selective antibody that targets the EGFR protein expressed in this type of cancer, with a CDK-blocking drug to

create a tailored drug for breast cancer.

"We were on the hunt for cancer's vulnerabilities and now we've found out how we can guide our therapies to one of these. We combined these two drugs to create a tailored antibodydrug conjugate for patients with this aggressive cancer," said lead author Professor Sophia Karagiannis, from King's College London.

The researchers noted that as their "antibody-drug conjugate" targets the exact cancer cell, administering a lower inhibitor dose than usual may be possible, and will also be less toxic for the patient. They, however, called for more studies before developing the drug.

Chennai docs ace world-1st keyhole surgery for insular brain tumour via eyebrow

Chennai, May 21 (IANS) In a significant medical feat, a team of neurosurgeons here removed a deeply seated insular brain tumour of a 44-year-old woman through a transformative and novel eyebrow keyhole approach.

"This unprecedented technique, being the world's first, marks an important advancement in the field of neuro-oncology,"

according to a statement from Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs), Chennai, on Tuesday.

During a check-up, following her bike accident, doctors at ACC found an incidental tumour within the delicate folds of the woman's dominant-side insular lobe of her brain.

The insula, which is deeply embedded within the cerebral cortex, poses significant challenges for surgical intervention. It is surrounded by vital areas controlling functions such as speech and movement and is layered by a dense network of blood vessels.

Traditional surgical approaches require navigating through critical brain tissue and blood vessels, risking paralysis, stroke, and language impairment.

Why Covid vaccinations and repeated infections help boost immunity

New Delhi, May 26 (IANS) The immune cells of people who received Covid 19 vaccines and also experienced "breakthrough" or repeated infections can build an "immunity wall" against future SARS-CoV-2 infections, according to scientists.

Analysing blood samples, the team at La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) in California, US, found that people who experienced symptomatic breakthrough infections, from the Delta and Omicron variants, developed T-cells that are better at recognising and targeting SARS-CoV-2.

"The virus evolves, but, importantly, so does the immune system. T-cells do not sit idle. Instead, they learn to recognise the parts of the virus that mutate," said Alessandro Sette, Professor at LJI.

The researchers noted that due to multiple infections, “the cells could recognise multiple features, or antigens, on SARS-CoV-2.” As a result, the volunteers’ T-cells could recognise and target SARSCoV-2, “even if part of it was mutated.”

The study published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine showed that even asymptomatic breakthrough infections boost T-cell responses, however, the effect was not as significant.

Further, breakthrough infections also led B-cells to produce crossreactive antibodies against SARSCoV-2. Most of these antibodies targeted the new viral variants and the original vaccine antigens.

"New B-cell responses that are only specific to the infecting variant, but not the vaccine, are very rare," said LJI Instructor Parham Ramezani-Rad.

Importantly, the researchers discovered that breakthrough infections add more layers of protection to an individual “on top of a vaccine.”

Covid vaccines are given in the upper arm, which means immune cells fighting the virus develop far away from the upper respiratory system.

But, SARS-CoV-2 first infects the upper respiratory tract, which means there can be a delay in getting the right immune cells to the scene of infection, which the breakthrough infections can guard, explained the researchers. The researchers found no evidence of harmful "T-cell exhaustion," where T-cells lose their ability to target a pathogen after repeated infection.

Good diet and exercise: Here’s how to maintain mental health

New Delhi, May 24 (IANS)

Often, patients must remain awake during surgery, adding to their distress and increasing the risk of complications such as seizures and brain bulges. Despite these risks, surgery remains the primary option.

The team opted for the new keyhole approach via a minuscule incision in the eyebrow to the insula by leveraging their prior experience with keyhole surgeries for skull base lesions.

They said that the novel approach not only provides another alternative to removing these deep-seated brain tumours but also demonstrates "clinical excellence, efficiency and safety."

"The impact of this achievement cannot be overstated.

Timely recognition, appropriate treatment along with proper nutrition, exercise, and family history may be key to fighting mental health conditions, said experts on World Schizophrenia Day on Friday.

World Schizophrenia Day is observed every year on May 24 to raise awareness about the treatable mental illness that affects over 20 million people worldwide.

Psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, disorganised thoughts, and behaviour are some of the common symptoms of schizophrenia.

“Mental health is of utmost importance to all of us. Unfortunately, because of limited information, many myths associated with it, and a lot of social stigmas that go alongside unnecessarily have added on to

the issues in terms of patients not being able to recognise their problems/illnesses in time, families not being able to recognise and seek appropriate timely help and getting the ailment treated effectively in a timely manner,” Dr. Sameer Malhotra, Director and Head of Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, told IANS.

Schizophrenia is a major psychiatric disorder and it has different subtypes.

In schizophrenia, there are predominantly two sets of symptoms.

The first set is the positive set of symptoms, where one would be hearing things that others cannot hear, seeing things that others cannot see (hallucinations), or holding on to false beliefs (delusions).

The second is the negative symptoms, where the person feels a disconnect from the rest of the world, and becomes socially isolated. Dr. Sameer said that genetic factors as well as environmental factors are major risk factors responsible for the onset of schizophrenic illness.

Breaking Barriers: How the Progressive Artists Group Revolutionised the Indian Art Scene

By Sneha Gautam

The Progressive Artists' Group (PAG) was formed in Bombay in 1947 by a group of young artists who aimed to break away from the academic tradition and establish a modern Indian art movement.

Their works reflected a synthesis of Indian and Western influences and focused on social realism and contemporary issues. The PAG played a crucial role in shaping the identity of modern Indian art by introducing new techniques, styles, and themes.

Their work challenged traditional art forms and paved the way for future generations of Indian artists to explore their individual identities while embracing global influences. T

The group was initially formed by artists such as F.N. Souza, S.H. Raza, M.F. Husain, K.H. Ara, H.A. Gade, and S.K. Bakre, and was later joined by more artists including, Tyeb Mehta, Ram Kumar, and Krishen Khanna among others.

In its upcoming Masters Legacy Auction, AstaGuru will present unique works by each of these artists.

It is not a common affair for the works of these such important artists to be showcased together on a platform, which makes this auction an exciting opportunity for art collectors.

Here is a glimpse into some of the important works by these artists in the upcoming auction.

Landscape by F.N. Souza

architectural structures were composed. Hereby establishing the image purely based on the colour and textural contexts.

F N Souza's paintings express defiance and impatience with a well-defined aura of artistic conviction, as he shunned the banality of societal norms. His works periodically reflected the influence of various schools of art: the folk art of his native Goa, the full-blooded paintings of the Renaissance period, the religious fervour of the Catholic Church, the landscapes of the 18th and 19th-century European art and the path-breaking paintings of the moderns.

Le Village by S.H Raza

having been written about by Rudy von Leyden and the future Director of the Museum of Modern Art of Paris, Jacques Lassaigne.

The latter hailed him for not bringing and transferring his Indian exotic inferences; his strange unaccounted works were unconnected to any traditional form of art. Among the people to patronise his creations during the period were Jacques Lassaigne, Jean Bhownagary, Madame Rothschild, and celebrated writer Andre Maurois, amongst others.

Untitled by M.F. Husain

Executed in 1956, this work by Raza showcases a row of houses depicted with an eschewed approach.

The rooftops of the structure collide with each other, imparting a certain degree of

Souza was executed in 1962 when the artist was living in London.

Although the artist was not inclined towards abstraction, he seldom did create landscapes which were executed with spontaneity and dynamism. In this work, one can trace the sporadic brushwork painted with dark outlines and cross–hatch, the basis on which the

pictorial conflict. The artist had painstakingly achieved the feat of infusing his inner vision on the canvas. The year of the painting’s creation was of great importance, considering S. H. Raza had won the ‘Prix de la Critique d’Art award the very same year.

This validation indeed proved his mettle as an Indian artist who had attained a modern creative temperament. Soon thereafter, he gained a reputation in Paris,

The exploration of the nude form by K. H. Ara served as a pathbreaking juncture in the idiom of modern art in India at the time.

The presented lot is considered to be one of K H Ara’s most important paintings.

At the time of its creation, the artist had mastered his subject and had attained fluid control over his craft, which is evident in this artwork. It depicts a centrally positioned nude figure on a bed.

The soft curves of the woman's body are contrasted with an architectural background, executed with hatched strokes in tones of black and brown.

The painting is also a glorious testimony to K H Ara’s masterly virtuoso over the delicate medium of paper.

Darjeeling Sun by H.A. Gade

Executed in 1966 after his return to India, the presented lot titled ‘Dancing Girl’ is a striking and captivating work that commands attention with its bold lines and sweeping curves.

Measuring almost six feet long, the oil on canvas work is executed in thick, confident strokes of different shades of brown against a sepia background. The gestural composition captures the fluid movements of a dancing figure, with the curves and lines evocative of the dancer's body as it moves through space.

Despite its fragmented form, the painting conveys a sense of narrative and emotion, capturing the joy and passion of dance in a way that is both visceral and cerebral.

This work is a rendition of his famous horses, for which Husain was known across the globe. It was executed in 1990 with an acrylic on canvas palette dominated by the colour blue. Husain was taken by the imagery of horses very early on in life, witnessing the tazias taken out during Muharram processions. Later, he travelled around the world seeing various horse iconography in different cultures including horse pottery by the Song dynasty in China and European artists such as Marino Marini.

This would lead to him rendering powerful galloping horses. These horses served as symbols of grace and freedom and expressed both personal and universal emotions.

Untitled by K. H. Ara

This is a beautiful work by artist H.A Gade executed with oil on canvas in the year 1982. In 2014, the work was also published in the Retrospective Catalogue by Dhoomimal Gallery titled ‘H A Gade - Founder Member: Progressive Artists Group.’ Gade started his career with watercolours, eventually experimenting with different mediums, mainly oil on canvas.

One of the most talented Indian artists, Hari Ambadas Gade, chose abstract expressionism as his artistic language.

These works will be offered at AstaGuru’s upcoming ‘Masters Legacy’ auction, alongside several other rare and unseen works of art. Slated to be held on April 29-30, 2023, the auction presents a stellar selection featuring works by India's most celebrated modernists, including Nicholas Roerich, M.V. Dhurandhar, M.F. Husain, S.H. Raza, F.N. Souza, Tyeb Mehta, H.A Gade, Ganesh Pyne, Bikash Bhattacharjee, Jogen Chowdhury, Krishen Khanna, K.G. Subramanyan, K.K. Hebbar, Prabhakar Barwe, A. Ramachandran, Himmat Shah, Rameshwar Broota, B. Prabha, and T. Vaikuntam.

Recognising the narrative and glory of the Sun Temple Modhera

The Sun Temple of Modhera is a shrine to the Hindu god Surya that is situated in the Gujarati hamlet of Modhera in the Mehsana district. It was constructed following 1026–1027 CE during the Chalukya era and is located on the Pushpavati River's bank.

"It is important to understand

the value of the monument, acknowledge the context and understand the story to the core which in turn guides you to consciously take a call to create maximum impact while justifying the budget of the project," said Siddharth Bathla, Creative Director and Co-founder of Design Factory India.

The beautiful landscape work by F.N.

Dancing Girl by Krishen Khanna

Minor Hotels Appoints Puneet Dhawan as Head of Asia

Global hotel owner and operator Minor Hotels has appointed Puneet Dhawan as Head of Asia as the group plots its growth in Asia and India. From July, Dhawan will be responsible for the performance of all Minor Hotels properties in Asia, working in close collaboration with the Minor Hotels senior leadership team and will report to Minor Hotels CEO Dillip Rajakarier.

Dhawan, a seasoned professional with a 30-year hospitality career spanning Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

His most recent role as Senior Vice President of Operations – India & South Asia at Accor saw him lead the group’s business development, owner management, hotel operations and commercial team, driving Accor’s growth in the region. Notably, he oversaw the opening of the first Raffles hotel in India. His 25-year tenure at Accor also included time as the group’s Vice President of Operations, Middle East, and several General Manager roles. Dhawan’s journey in the hospitality industry began with the Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Group, where he held positions at its properties in the Philippines and Hong Kong.

Dhawan holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He will be based in the group’s Bangkok Corporate Office when he joins Minor Hotels in July.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International, commented, “We are excited to welcome Puneet to the Minor Hotels family. His operational experience and empowering leadership will be invaluable as we work to achieve our growth ambitions in Asia and India in the coming years.”

In January, Minor Hotels unveiled its target to add more than 200 new openings to its global portfolio, with approximately half in Asia, by the end of 2026. More recently, the hotel group announced its plan to 50 new openings in India within the next ten years, including the debut of its luxury Anantara brand later this year in Jaipur.

5 festivals to experience in the Land of the Thunder Dragon

As Bhutan marks the 50th anniversary of opening its doors to foreign tourists this year, there is no better way to experience the culture and soul of the country than through its calendar of over 150 festivals per year. Festivals are a key part of Bhutanese culture, and the Kingdom has a comprehensive festival calendar full of colour and atmosphere.

From mystical dances that give life to Bhutan's ancient myths to the rhythms that have echoed through the Kingdom's mountains for centuries, Bhutan’s variety of festivals will prepare travellers to immerse themselves in the unique cultural experience of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Genekha Matsutake Mushroom Festival 15th-16th August 2024

The Genekha Matsutake Mushroom Festival, celebrated in Thimphu, is a two-day event celebrated on the 15th and 16th of August. The festival aims to promote sustainable harvesting of mushrooms, create local awareness about wild edible mushrooms, and showcase the local cuisines. The festival offers a variety of activities, such as displays of indigenous sports

and stalls showcasing local products like wild mushrooms, non-wood products, and high-breed agricultural seeds. Festival-goers can also relish traditional dishes like mushroom soup and curry. The festival also features traditional performances showcasing the region's unique heritage, such as mask and folk dances, along with exhibitions and displays.

Thimphu Tshechu 13th- 15th September 2024

The Thimphu Tshechu is an awe-inspiring event in the Bhutanese capital that brings locals and tourists worldwide together. Thimphu Tshechu is a grand celebration dedicated to spreading the teachings of Guru Rinpoche, the second Buddha, and commemorating his legacy. During three days of lively festivities, the festival is full of colourful dances and ritual ceremonies that depict the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche. Said to be one of the most popular events for locals and tourists alike, Thimphu Tshechu leaves a lasting impression on all of its visitors.

Royal Highland Festival 23rd-24th October 2024

As our planet grapples with the challenges of global warming and climate change, sustainable living and eco-friendly practices have become increasingly crucial. Here are 6 destinations that seamlessly blend sustainability with tourism and hospitality.

Thailand

The Royal Highland Festival, which celebrates the ancient traditions of Bhutan’s highland communities, is scheduled from October 23rd to 24th, 2024. The festival will be held in the beautiful district of Laya, in the highlands of Bhutan. It will showcase the authentic, simple lives of the highlanders through a range of activities, including highland animal competitions, folk dances, and age-old traditional offerings. One of the festival's highlights is the scenic 25 km Laya Run, which begins at Ponjothang, the point where the drivable road ends. Visitors will travel along the banks of the mighty Mochu River until they reach the festival ground. This year, the festival will also mark the start of the Snowman Race, considered as one of the hardest ultramarathons in the world.

Zhemgang Bird Festival 13th-15th November 2024

The annual Zhemgang Bird Festival is another popular festival that takes place in November. Located in the ecotourism capital of Zhemgang, the festival is a scenic 6-hour drive away from Thimphu. Visitors from both local and foreign lands flock to this festival to witness over 500 bird species living in the Zhemgang region. The three-day festival promotes eco-tourism and will feature cultural and entertaining performances by local bands, dancers, singers, and traditional Bhutanese musicians. Visitors can sample the local Bhutanese cuisine at the food stalls, participate in competitions and games, and enjoy a hike along the beautiful bird-watching trails. It promises to be a traditional Bhutanese festival that will be remembered for a long time.

The Land of Smiles and Hospitality is home to countless alluring experiences and attractions that make it an ideal destination for vacations, weddings, honeymoons, and bleisure trips. To blend tourism and sustainability, the country has implemented numerous initiatives including ocean conservation, wildlife rehabilitation and ecological restoration efforts. In the hospitality space, Krabi’s ultra-luxury beachside resort – Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve stands as an epitome of sustainability. The property utilises reusable bamboo straws and glass bottles instead of plastic tableware. Its in-room amenities are packaged with sustainable materials, such as beeswax. Striving for authenticity, it sources its drinking water from a natural spring in the Naga Mountains and incorporates local produce and ingredients from the Chef’s Garden in its culinary creations. The festive decorations in the resort are also exclusively made of natural and reusable materials, such as coconut shells, driftwood, leaves, and recycled glass bottles. Moreover, Phulay Bay encourages its patrons to contribute towards elephant conservation under the Help the Herd program at the Krabi Elephant House Sanctuary.

Seychelles

The tropical paradise of Seychelles is known for its crystal-clear waters thriving with marine life and unique flora and fauna. To preserve the sanctity of its ecosystem, the country has taken monumental steps such as preserving its flagship tree Coco de Mer, which is known to yield the biggest fruit in the world. They have also made significant efforts to save Dudongs, a rare and vulnerable marine life

found at Aldabra Atoll, from extinction. The archipelago has also implemented the BIOPAMAfunded project to set up biosecurity measures preventing invasive alien species from overriding the endemic flora and fauna on Aldabra. Pre-pandemic, the archipelago collaborated with the University of Oxford for the Aldabra Clean-Up Project to remove human-made waste, like plastic litter from the sea that harmed aquatic creatures and the ecosystem. Through these nuanced efforts, Seychelles strives to be an eco-conscious destination that prioritises sustainability and promotes positive tourism experiences.

Oman

Defined by age-old culture and innovation, Oman strives to achieve a net-zero future and preserve its ecosystem by encouraging sustainable practices. In Oman’s Capital, Muscat, the grand five-star resort, Shangri-La Al Barr Jissah, has taken steps to realise this vision. As one of five turtle nesting sites in the country, its beaches welcome hundreds of turtles every year, serving as a safe sanctuary for these creatures to proliferate. Guests are invited to witness hatchings and watch daily Turtle Talks at the hotel’s Eco Centre to initiate the young generation into learning about biodiversity. Protecting the natural habits of critically endangered sea creatures is a priority for the team at the resort and so their Turtle Care Project aims to protect the rare hawksbill and green turtle species through supervision and protection. The resort is actively working towards eliminating the use of single-use plastic and has adopted ways like using refilled bottles, drinking water fountains across the property, and replacing plastic straws with metallic ones. Vietnam

Ayurveda Tips for Mothers: Recharge with Simple Self-Care

A woman is an integral part of the family or the work place or anywhere for that matter.

The Mother is said to be the backbone of the Family. And the back (Mother) undergoes a lot of jumbles in its lifetime to maintain the overall structure of the body (family). Hence one needs to value it and take care of it in all the best possible ways.

Why does one need to take care?

The Mother is the sole representative of Nature. This Gift of Life is been given by her to all of us. It is very important for all of us to payback to this Nature. Hence one has to do it with utmost respect and humbleness.

In what way can one do it?

Keeping oneself healthy is the most effective way to compliment self. Ayurveda proposes following the principles of Dinacharya (self-care regimen) that helps one achieve it. One among them is a prime and the easiest regimenAbhyanga.

Abhyanga- Application of warm oil on the entire body, from the scalp to the soles of your feet, massaging it in the same direction (Scalp to soles). Practicing this regularly excluding the days of menstruation provides many health benefits for women. A daily Abhyanga practice restores the

balance of the doshas; enhances well - being, and longevity. Abhyanga can give a deep feeling of stability and warmth. It nourishes the entire body, decreases the effects of ageing, imparts muscle tone and vigour to the dhatus (tissues of the body), lubricates the joints and promotes firmness to the limbs, stimulates the internal organs of the body, assists in elimination of impurities from the body, increases stamina, calms the nerves, imparts better and deeper sleep, enhances vision, softens and smoothens the skin, wards off the wrinkles, makes hair grow lustrous, enhances the recovery from various internal and external ailments as a whole. This “one activity Abhyanga” has a potential to transform a condition of disease at any level to ease. Hence practicing this in the early part of the day for 15 – 20 minutes on empty stomach should be an integral part of a women’s life. One can use essential oils infused with Sandalwood (Pitta type) or Amla (Vata Type) or Tulsi (Kapha Type) or a blend of all. While making a blend always dilute with a base of coconut oil or sesame oil. Another important way to keeping one healthy in all terms is the use of herbal decoctions. Herbal decoctions

are primarily made using tougher plant materials such as roots, barks, seeds and stems. The plant material is simmered in boiling water for 15 – 20 mins to release the active constituents in the liquid. Thus Herbal decoctions deliver the beneficial properties of herbs in concentrated form and help with various health issues: Digestive problems, Respiratory issues, Immune support, Stress management and Pain relief. Some popular Herbal Decoction Dandelion Root Decoction: Place ½ tsp of dried dandelion root coarse powder in 200 ml of water and bring it to boil in low simmer for 10 – 15 minutes. Turn off the heat, strain and drink 50 –100 ml as desired.

Benefits: Promotes liver health, aids digestion, balances kapha & pitta.

Cumin Seed / Coriander Seed Decoction: Add ½ tsp of the seeds in 200 ml of water and bring it to boil in low simmer for 10 – 15 mins. Turn off the heat, strain and drink as desired.

Benefits: clears bloating, improves metabolism, relieves headache, supports circulation, balances pitta & vata.

Ashwangandha Root decoction: Place ½ tsp of dried ashwangandha root powder in 200 ml of water and bring it to boil in low simmer for 10 – 15 minutes. Turn off the heat, strain and enjoy 50 – 100 ml with ½ tsp jaggery.

Benefits: Boosts immunity, relieves stress, nourishes body tissues, relaxes the mind, balances kapha & vata.

Ayurveda understands that a women’s body undergoes a lot of changes in her entire lifetime menarche, motherhood and menopause.

Why working professionals opting for skin boosters?

By Dr. Soujanya Dhulipala

In today’s time, prioritising skin health has become an important aspect. Individuals are adopting comprehensive approaches ranging from skincare routines to dietary choices to advanced treatments for optimal results. According to the latest report, the global market for skin boosters, valued at USD 1.08 billion in 2023, is projected to witness a steady growth rate of 9.0 percent from 2024 to 2030.

Skin boosters entail microinjections of hyaluronic acid, along with vitamins and minerals, directly into the epidermis, aiming to revitalize, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin, thereby imparting a natural radiance.

The surge in demand for skin boosters is attributed to several factors, including evolving beauty standards globally, increased accessibility to nonsurgical cosmetic procedures, regulatory approvals for innovative skin boosters, and rising cosmetic demands among the ageing population.

Interestingly, in India, a notable uptick in demand among working professionals has been observed, driven by the fast-paced nature of their lives. Amidst hectic schedules and prolonged work hours, individuals often grapple with skin issues like dullness, dehydration, and premature ageing. Skin boosters emerge as a convenient solution, offering quick revitalization and hydration to maintain a fresh and radiant appearance despite busy routines. Leading the forefront of new-age therapies is bio remodelling that employs ultrapure hyaluronic acid through precise injections

Beauty

Iamso excited to launch Kylie Cosmetics in India – I created Kylie Cosmetics to give my fans access to the makeup products that I use and love, and I can’t wait to share my collection with all my fans in India.", said Kylie Jenner, Founder of Kylie Cosmetics.

In 2015, Kylie Jenner embarked on her beauty business with the launch of Kylie Lip Kits - a collection of three liquid lipsticks with corresponding lip liners. Since then, Kylie supported by Global beauty powerhouse Coty, have continued to expand her beauty empire around the world in over 50 countries, and across eye, complexion, and countless innovations in lip. The beauty line is carefully crafted with clean formulations and vegan ingredients that deliver on trend, high-quality, high-pigment, and

high-performance formulations that fans around the world have come to love.

In a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion Kylie Cosmetics, launches in India. Partnering with House of Beauty, the leading beauty specialty company which brings coveted international beauty brands to India, Kylie Cosmetics’ arrival has been long awaited by Indian beauty consumers. This partnership marks the first time the brand has partnered with an Indian omnichannel specialist like House of Beauty.

The launch collection includes the best-selling Matte and Velvet Lip Kits, as well as recent must-have launches such as Precision Pout Lip Liner, Power Plush Longwear Foundation, Kylash Volume Mascara, Power Plush Longwear Concealer and Tinted Butter Balm.

Starting 25th April 2024, Kylie Cosmetics will be available exclusively in 25 Sephora India stores nationwide and online on www.sephora.in

Chase the sun, not the damage: Smart skin care choices for summer

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us eagerly embrace the warmth of summer. However, the need for diligent skin care comes with the joys of outdoor activities and beach vacations.

to combat ageing signs such as wrinkles and dark under-eye patches. This innovative approach delivers essential nutrients to promote skin rejuvenation, restoring moisture for enhanced firmness and elasticity. Profhilo, a prominent method within bio remodelling, ensures uniform moisture distribution across critical areas like the face, neck, and hands, yielding immediate hydration and skin-tightening effects.

Furthermore, the appeal of skin boosters lies in their ability to deliver visible results with minimal downtime, a crucial factor for working professionals. Unlike traditional skin care products or more invasive procedures like facelifts or lasers, skin boosters provide almost instant rejuvenation without necessitating prolonged recovery periods, enabling individuals to resume daily activities promptly.

Before diving into skin care tips, it's essential to understand the damaging effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to many skin concerns, including sunburn and premature ageing.

"One of the most effective ways to shield your skin from sun damage is sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, and ears, and remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating," says Mansi Sharma, founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess.

Hydration is key. Summer heat can take a toll on your skin, leading to dehydration and a loss of moisture. Mansi recommends to combat the heat by staying hydrated from the inside out.

She says, "Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products into your routine, such as lightweight moisturizers and serums formulated with hyaluronic acid or glycerin."

While sunscreen provides crucial protection, it's not the only line of defence against the sun's rays. "Consider covering up with lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, and sunglasses to provide additional protection for your skin and eyes. Opt for tightly woven fabrics and dark colours for optimal sun protection," adds Mansi. "When possible, seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when UV radiation is at its strongest, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Take breaks from direct sunlight by relaxing under a beach umbrella or finding shelter in a shaded area." The founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess also suggests that while selecting skincare products for summer, opt for formulations that cater to the specific needs of sun-exposed skin. Mansi says, "Look for products enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. Incorporating a gentle exfoliant into your routine can also help slough off dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, radiant complexion."

Australia’s aussieBum to fuse global and local Innerwear styles

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

The innerwear market in India holds a significant value of approximately Rs 48,123 crore and is anticipated to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.5%, projecting a market value of Rs. 26,952 crores by 2025. Despite its substantial size, the market is predominantly dominated by options that lack functionality in terms of quality, fabric, and regional suitability. There exists a noticeable void in terms of innovation, fabric diversity, density, and opportunities for personal expression.

aussieBum, an Australia-based Men’s Innerwear and Athleisure Wear Brand foraying into the Indian market aims to fill the lacuna and cater to all aspects of the wardrobe needs of Indian men. Specifically, the newer generation who aren’t enticed by the conventional designs and fabrics.

Sean Ashby, the Founder and Managing Director of aussieBum, shares insights with IANSlife about the brand's vision and its strategy for meeting the evolving preferences of Indian customers in the realm of innerwear.

How was aussieBum born, the story behind the brand?

Ashby: A brand born on the shores of Australia's famous Bondi Beach, has a rich history that began in 2001. As the founder and former Marketing Manager for Warner Music along with other credible entertainment industries in Australia, I decided to create a swimwear, clothing, and lifestyle brand that reflected my love and passion for the surf, sun, and sea. The brand's inception was sparked by a seemingly trivial inconvenience: the discontinuation of my favourite swimwear style. Discontent with the alternatives and driven by a deep-seated resolve, I decided to take matters into my own hands, marking the inception of aussieBum.

The word AUSSIEBUM is derived from my Australian background and the time spent at the beach, often referred to as a beach bum. Embarking on this venture was no easy feat. With no formal education in fashion or business, the journey was fraught with trials and errors, ranging from sourcing the perfect nylon fabric

to partnering with craftsmen who shared my vision. The road was long, filled with rejections and learning curves, but it was these very challenges that forged the brand's identity and values.

My journey is a testament to perseverance, from knocking on doors with nothing but a prototype and a dream to facing the harsh realities of retail rejection. Yet, it was the rejection from mainstream retailers that propelled the innerwear brand towards its destiny – a digital frontier that was still in its infancy. With a newfound focus on e-commerce, the brand not only found its audience but created a global community, a tribe of like-minded individuals united by a love for quality, design, and the Aussie way of life.

As the innerwear brand grew, so did its offerings, expanding from swimwear to underwear and beyond, each product echoing the brand's commitment to quality, innovation, and authenticity.

The brand's success is not just measured in sales but in the impact it has had on its customers and the fashion industry at large.

What is the idea, mission, and vision behind the brand in India?

Ashby: In 2023, I was approached by a Singaporean representative of wealthy Indian families interested in acquiring aussieBum after Earnst & Young (EY) conducted research to source brands for the Indian market. This marked a pivotal moment in aussieBum's journey, signalling our entry into the vibrant Indian market. However, aussieBum's venture into India is not merely about entering a new market; it's about embracing a vibrant culture and celebrating individuality.

For us, aussieBum has always stood for more than just clothing; it's a lifestyle choice that resonates with people who dare to be different. Recognizing India's potential as a global fashion hub and inspired by the country's rich cultural tapestry, I envisioned aussieBum establishing a business entity in India. This move aligns with the Indian government's focus on boosting the economy and keeping revenue within the country.

We aim to be more than just a clothing brand in India; we want to be a part of people's lives, offering them quality products

that reflect their personality and style. Our mission is to cater to the evolving fashion needs of modern Indian men, offering them a diverse range of apparel that combines style with sustainability. At aussieBum, we believe in empowering individuals to express themselves through fashion, regardless of their body type or size.

aussieBum's presence in India signifies a deeper commitment to mutual growth and prosperity. Through partnerships with local stakeholders, we aim to contribute to skill development, job creation, and community empowerment. We see India not just as a market but as a partner in our journey towards a more inclusive and sustainable fashion industry.

Why middle-class Indians are an important touch point for your brand?

Ashby: The middle-class segment in India is a pivotal focus for the brand due to its sheer size, burgeoning potential, and evolving tastes. At aussieBum, we are strategically positioned to bridge this gap by offering innovative, high-quality products tailored to the evolving needs and preferences of Indian men, especially the newer generation disenchanted with conventional designs and fabrics. With an unwavering commitment to quality and creativity, we are not just redefining but setting new standards in modern menswear. Our diverse range of products caters to various wardrobe needs, reflecting our strong commitment to quality and creativity.

Targeting the middle-class segment allows us to offer affordable yet stylish and functional garments that resonate with this burgeoning consumer base. By focusing on innovation, fabric diversity, and personal expression, it emerges as the preferred choice for middleclass Indian men seeking quality innerwear that aligns with their evolving style and personality. Product and process innovation taken up by the brand to cater to the needs and tastes of the Indian market.

Ashby: The brand's entry into the Indian market is driven by our commitment to innovation and a desire to redefine menswear.

With a strong focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology, we aim to offer more than just innerwear; we aspire to revolutionize the Indian wardrobe.

Leading this journey, I have always been passionate about creating groundbreaking products. One of our key achievements is the Men's Wonderwork for comfort.

IANS Exclusive: Being in Cannes is magical, says Aditi Rao Hydari

aka Aditi Rao Hydari is delighted to be part of the L'Oreal Paris family at the Cannes Film Festival. The actress who shone in her latest performance in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi, knows her appearance is eagerly anticipated at the world's most glamorous red carpet. IANSlife spoke to the actress about her role in the Netflix series, her Cannes outing and her association with the cosmetic giant.

Read Excerpts:

Many Indian celebrities have taken a turn on the Cannes red carpet, what do you believe it requires to create a fashion statement that endures?

ARH: Representing L'Oreal Paris at Cannes is a significant honor for me. L'Oreal Paris has been the official partner of the Cannes Film Festival for 27 years. As a spokesperson for L'Oreal Paris, I feel a great responsibility, but I also believe I align with their brand philosophy, which emphasizes self-worth and confidence. Finding confidence from within, being comfortable with your uniqueness, and being authentic are qualities that make a lasting impression.

To me, that's what matters most, whether in fashion, work, or just being yourself. It's about being authentic and enjoying the process. Making an appearance can be daunting and nervewracking, but I remind myself that it's a beautiful opportunity and part of my personal journey to truly feel worthy.

Can you tell us about your association with L'Oréal Paris and what values of the brand which make it a suitable alignment?

ARH: To me, it is a tremendous honor to serve as the spokesperson for a legacy brand like L'Oreal Paris. This brand embodies not just external beauty but also the inner beauty that stems from confidence and selfassurance. Representing beauty with confidence is what makes L'Oreal Paris truly special. The alignment of countless women with the brand's philosophy speaks volumes. For me, this partnership has been seamless and something I've always aspired to. Being the face of this brand is a moment of pride for me, and I hope my association with L'Oreal Paris continues.

What are the inspirations behind your looks for the Cannes 2024 season?

ARH: Well, look number one is out of the bag and the rest will be revealed in real time. You know, and there's a time for it to be out and it's nice for it to come out when it should come up. Your recent performance in Heeramandi has been lauded as one of your best… Do you believe the director and producer play a pivotal role in bringing out the best in the actor?

ARH: There are six leads, and I'm one of them, and all of us have been appreciated a lot. I'm so overwhelmed that, you know, Bibbojaan has been called a standout performance, it's also a very beautiful character. And every heroic character arcs, I think that has touched a chord with people and resonated and connected, and I'm very, very grateful for that. I do believe I'm a directors actor, and I credit Sanjay Leela Bhansali, completely for creating the Bibbojaan journey, which has challenged and nurtured me. So all the praise that I'm getting and all the credit that I'm getting, I credit him for it.

Bibbojaan

Shimla: Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves to supporters during a public meeting ahead of Lok Sabha elections. BJP Himachal Pradesh President Dr Rajeev Bindal is also seen, in Shimla, Friday, May 24, 2024.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol (C) speaks during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the guesthouse of the former presidential office, Cheong Wa Dae, in Seoul on May 27, 2024.

Gurdaspur: Farmers stage a protest after they were stopped from marching towards the venue of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rally for Lok Sabha elections, in Gurdaspur, Friday, May 24, 2024.

Cannes: Payal Kapadia, Second From Left , Winner Of The Grand Prize For ‘All We Imagine As Light,’ Poses With Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam And Kani Kusruti During The Photo Call Following The Awards Ceremony At The 77th International Film Festival

Mumbai: Indian Cricket Team players and support staff before departing for New York to participate in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, in Mumbai, Saturday, May 25, 2024.

Bengaluru : Buddhist monks offer prayers during Buddha Purnima celebrations at Mahabodhi Society in Bengaluru, Thursday, May 23, 2024

Kangra: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu during a public meeting amid ongoing Lok Sabha Elections, in Kangra, Monday, May 27, 2024

Chennai : Players of Kolkata Knight Riders pose with the trophy after winning the IPL 2024 final match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, May 26, 2024.

Kolkata: A Buddhist monk offers prayer to Lord Buddha on the occasion of Buddha Purnima, at Mahabodhi Society in Kolkata, on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Amritsar: Delhi Chief Minister and AAP Supremo Arvind Kejriwal interacts with industrialists during a meeting for Lok Sabha polls, in Amritsar, Monday, May 27, 2024.

New Delhi: White tigers rest under a shade inside their enclosure on a hot summer day at the National Zoological Park in New Delhi on Monday, May 27, 2024.

Patiala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with party leader Hans Raj Hans during a public meeting ahead of Lok Sabha elections, in Patiala, Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinpin and Russian President Vladimir Putin review the honor guard during an official welcome ceremony in Beijing, China, Thursday, May 16, 2024.

MUNJYA

RELEASE DATE: 7 June 2024

RUNTIME: 120 Mins

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Dinesh Vijan, Amar Kaushik

DIRECTOR: Aditya Sarpotdar

CAST: Sharvari, Abhay Verma, Mona Singh, S. Sathyaraj

NI MAIN SASS

KUTTNI 2

RELEASE DATE: 7 June 2024

LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Yoodle Films

DIRECTOR: Mohit Banwait

CAST: Gurpreet Ghuggi, Karamjit Anmol, Nirmal Rishi, Anita Devgn, Tanvi Nagi, Mehtab Virk

CHANDU CHAMPION

RELEASE DATE: 14 June 2024

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Sajid Nadiadwala & Kabir Khan

DIRECTOR: Kabir Khan

CAST: Kartik Aaryan

E JATT VIGARH GYA

RELEASE DATE: 17 May 2024

LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Daljit Thind

DIRECTOR: Maneesh Bhatt

CAST:

Jayy Randhawa, Pawan Malhotra, Deep Sehgal

Telugu actresses Hema and Ashi Roy’s blood samples test positive for drug use after rave party raid

for the consumption of drugs at a rave party in

The rave party bust happened near Electronics City in Bengaluru. The blood samples of the attendees at the busted rave party were sent to a laboratory for testing, as per Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B Dayananda.

The blood samples of 59 men tested positive for drugs while the

blood samples of 27 women tested positive.

Both Hema and Aashi Roy were present at the party. Hema, who was detained by the cops, used the excuse of going to the washroom to record a misleading video. She reportedly pleaded with the police not to arrest her and to keep her identity concealed.

The rave party case, which was initially handled by the Electronic City Police, was transferred to the Hebbagodi Police station before being taken over by the Central Crime Branch. The rave party reportedly had MDMA pills, crystals, hydro cannabis and cocaine at the venue.

Nia Sharma explains how she put together her handmade red outfit for ‘Suhagan Chudail’

achieve the perfect blend of seductive and sinister.

Set to become the signature look of the chudail, Nia's exquisite red creation boasts elaborate stonework and delicate embroidery.

Talking about the outfit, Nia shared: "Deciding what my character Nishigandha should look like in 'Suhagan Chudail' was a really exciting creative process for me as an actor and someone who loves fashion. From the very beginning, when I first read the script, I knew this role needed a truly special and unique look."

The show's stylist, Annuradha Khuranna, handcrafted Nia's red ensemble entirely -- from the ornate blouse and lehenga to the statement jewellery pieces.

"There's just something so special about wearing an outfit that a designer has made completely by hand from start to finish. I must say, my amazing stylist Annuradha perfectly understood the vision I had in mind and used her talents to handcraft this stunning red ensemble for Nishigandha," she shared.

Nia worked with Khuranna, trying on various looks before finally settling on the red aesthetic. To ensure sartorial perfection, even the jewellery pieces adorning Nia were painstakingly handmade rather than sourced from existing collections.

Nia added: "We tried out many different colours, styles, and textures before deciding on this beautifully hand-embroidered masterpiece. The phenomenal response to my look from fans has made all the effort worth it.”

'Suhagan Chudail' will premiere on May 27 at 10.30 p.m. on Colors.

Anushka Sen offers a peek into her shoot day in Bangkok; drops pic munching chips

Actress Anushka Sen on Tuesday shared glimpses from her visit to Bangkok, Thailand, as the diva is in the vibrant city shooting for her upcoming project.

Taking to Instagram, Anushka, who enjoys 39.2 million followers, shared a series of photos, where we can see her wearing a breezy half sleeves magenta pink colour dress, with a sweetheart neckline and a thigh-high slit in between.

Anasuya Sengupta scripts history, becomes first Indian to win top acting award at Cannes

Anasuya Sengupta became the first Indian to win a top acting award at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday night.

The little-known actress who has worked mainly as a production designer in Mumbai and lives in Goa, took home the Best Actress award at the Un Certain Regard segment of the festival.

Sengupta won the award for her gritty role in Bulgarian director Constantin Bojanov's film, 'The Shameless', which also features well-known actress Mita Vashist on its star cast. The film was shot over a month and half in India and Nepal.

Bojanov, an award-winning director, incidentally, is Anasuya's Facebook friend. He caught her by surprise when one day out of the blue he asked her to send an audition tape. That was the start of the Jadavpur University graduate's acting career.

The previous credits of the Kolkata-born debutante actress include being the production designer of Srijit Mukherjee's

'Forget Me Not' in Netflix's 2021 Satyajit Ray anthology and 'Masaba Masaba'. She plays Renuka, a vagabond seeking refuge in a northern Indian community of sex workers after fleeing from Delhi on being charged with murder.

The film's story centres around Renuka's illicit love affair with a teenager named Devika, played by Omara Shetty, who's initially sheltered from entering sex work because of her physical ailments, but not for long.

Receiving the award, a "shaking" Anasuya dedicated it to "the queer community and other marginalised communities for so bravely fighting a fight they really shouldn't have to".

Her voice shaking with emotion, and drawing repeated cheers and applause, she ended her short acceptance speech by saying, "We don't need to be colonised to know how very, very pathetic colonisers are."

Janhvi visits Sridevi’s ‘favourite place’: Chennai’s Muppathamman temple

shared a gamut of pictures from her temple visit. In the images, Janhvi is seen wearing a lehenga with floral prints. She opted for a simple look, completing it with beach wave hair. “Visited Muppathamman temple for the first time. Mumma’s most favourite place to visit in Chennai,” Janhvi wrote in the caption. Actor Varun Dhawan took to the comment section and quipped: “Masi whose actually your sister.”

She has opted for a no-makeup look and tied her hair in a messy bun. Anushka accessorised the look with black sunglasses and white sneakers.

The 'Jhansi Ki Rani' fame diva can be seen munching upon some chips.

The post is captioned as: "Shoot day in Bangkok".

Ahead of the release of 'Mr. & Mrs. Mahi', actress Janhvi Kapoor visited the Muppathamman temple, which she said was her "mumma" and late actress Sridevi’s favourite place in Chennai.

Janhvi took to Instagram and

Janhvi is the daughter of producer Boney Kapoor and the late actress Sridevi, who passed away in an accidental drowning in Dubai in 2018. She also has a sister, Khushi Kapoor, who made her acting debut with Zoya Akhtar’s 'The Archies'.

Mumbai, May 23 (IANS) Telugu actresses Hema and Ashi Roy's blood samples have tested positive

Bengaluru.

Nia Sharma, who plays the lead in the fantasy-thrillerromance 'Suhagan Chudail', has opened up about her customcreated striking red ensemble, which is the result of numerous fittings and experiments to

Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine As Light’ has to settle for a Grand Prix at Cannes

So near, yet so far. Payal Kapadia's 'All We Imagine As Light' came home with the Grand Prix, but not the Palme d'Or, from the glittering awards event that brought the curtains down on the 77th Cannes Film Festival on Saturday night.

Still, it was a big moment for Indian cinema, which was evident from the extended standing ovation that the director and her three lead stars got from the house-full audience.

It was in as far back as 1994 that the festival's prestigious competition section featured an Indian film -- Malayalam director Shaji Karun's 'Swaham', which did not win any award. The Palme d'Or that year, incidentally, went to Quentin Tarantino's classic, 'Pulp Fiction'.

The Palme d'Or went to American filmmaker Sean Baker for 'Anora' nine years after he was named one of the Directors to Watch by 'Variety', which calls the film "a rowdy whirlwind romance between an exotic dancer (Mikey Madison) and the obscenely rich son of a Russian oligarch (Mark Eydelshteyn).

Baker, notes 'Variety', is the first American director to clinch the top prize at Cannes after Terrence Malick earned it for 'The Tree of Life' in 2011.

Kapadia received the award from Hollywood star Viola Davis along with the film's three lead actors -Kani Kusruti, Chhaya Kadam and Divya Prabha.

In her acceptance speech, Kapadia started by giving a shoutout to the Best Director award winner, Miguel Gomes from Portugal, whose work she said she followed.

She then went on to make a statement on the value of female friendship, as opposed to the stereotypical representation of women pitting themselves against each other.

Kapadia also urged the festival's decision-makers not to make the world wait "for another 30 years" to see an Indian film in the competition section. Reacting almost immediately after the announcement, Anurag Kashyap raised a toast to the hope and inspiration that 38-year-old Kapadia has become

to an emerging generation of independent filmmakers.

India has had a great run at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. Debutante actress Anasuya Sengupta got the Best Actress prize at the festival's Un Certain Regard segment for her performance in Bulgarian director Konstantin Bojanov's 'The Shameless'.

Mysuru doctor-turnedfilmmaking aspirant Chidananda Naik's Film & Television Institute of India (FTII) student film 'Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know...', which he made in just four days, won the first prize at the 'La Cinef' segment of the festival.

Also honoured at Cannes was the veteran cinematographer, Santosh Sivan, who became the first Asian to be awarded the prestigious Pierre Angenieux ExcelLens in Cinematography award named after the inventor of the zoom lens that revolutionised cinematography.

Hailed by the BBC as a "magical ode to nocturnal Mumbai", 'All We Imagine As Light' has been described as "a delicate triple portrait of women who have devoted their lives to helping others, but have received precious little in return in terms of money, status or freedom."

As would be expected from a Payal Kapadia film, it makes a strong political statement as well by showing one of the characters, a Hindu, nurturing a relationship with a young Muslim man.

The film's climax, in more than one way, is the scene of them making love in a forest near the beach town where the three lead characters decide to have a little break.

The stars of the Indian-French co-production are Kani Kusruti, who audiences outside Kerala would identify as the one who plays the strong-willed personal secretary of Huma Qureishi's character in 'Maharani', Chhaya Kadam, last seen bringing the house down with her stellar performance in 'Laapataa Ladies', and Divya Prabha.

Kapadia, who's acclaimed artist Nalini Malini's daughter and FTII graduate, won the Golden Eye at Cannes in 2021 for her politically

incendiary debut documentary, 'A Night of Knowing Nothing'.

The jury for the competition films was presided over by the 'Barbie' hitmaker Greta Gerwig. Its members, a number of them women, included J.A. Bayona, Spanish filmmaker; Ebru Ceylan, Turkish actress and screenwriter; Pierfrancesco Favino, Italian actor-producer; 'Killers of the Flower Moon' star Lily Gladstone; Eva Green, French actress; Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda; Nadine Labaki, Lebanese actress and filmmaker; and French actor Omar Sy. Here's the complete roster of the other winners who were honoured on Saturday night: Jury Prize: Former Palme d'Or winner Jacques Audiard's Spanish film 'Emilia Perez'. The Mexicoset musical -- about a cartel boss who disappears in order to re-emerge as a woman, according to 'Variety' -- stars Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez and trans star Karla Sofía Gascon.

Best Director: Miguel Gomes from Portugal for 'Grand Tour', which blends colour and blackand-white cinematography to tell the early 20th-century story of a British civil servant who attempts to flee his fiancee by hopping from one Asian country to the next.

Best Actor: Jesse Plemons, a.k.a. Kirsten Dunst's husband, 'Kinds of Kindness' (director: Yorgos Lanthimos, who was in the news not so long ago for his Emma Stone film, 'Poor Things'). Plemons, says 'Variety', plays three roles, those of submissive businessman, grieving police officer and bisexual cult member in this surrealist satire.

Special Award for Best Screenplay: 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig', Iranian dissident director Mohammad Rasoulof's latest film, for which he was condemned to an eight-year prison sentence back home

Best Actress: The quartet of stars of the Spanish film 'Emilia Perez' -- Adriana Paz, Zoe Saldana, Karla Sofia Gascon and Selena Gomez. Lily Gladstone of 'Killers of the Flower Moon', who was on the jury presided over by Greta Gerwig, described the award as "the harmony of sisterhood".

Best Screenplay: 'The Substance' (starring Demi Moore), Coralie Fargeat

Camera d'Or (which is awarded to a first film): 'Armand', director Halfdan Ullmann Tondel, who, incidentally, is grandson of Norwegian actress Liv Ullman and Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman.

Special Mentions: 'Mongrel' (directed: Chiang Wei Liang) and 'Bad For A Moment' (director: Daniel Soares)

Short Film Palme d'Or: 'The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent' (director: Nebojsa Slijepcevic)

Priyanka Chopra congratulates Indian winners at Cannes for scripting history

Actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who recently lent her voice to the wildlife documentary ‘Tiger’ as a narrator, has congratulated the Indian talents that scored huge victories at the recently concluded 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival.

On Monday, Priyanka took to the Stories section of her Instagram and sent her best wishes to the winners, Anasuya Sengupta, Payal Kapadia, and Chidananda S Naik.

While Anasuya won the Best Actress Award at Cannes, Payal’s film ‘All We Imagine as Light’ was feted with the ‘Le Grand Prix’ award, and Chidananda’s short film ‘Sunflowers were the first ones to know’ was honoured with the La Cinef Award for Best Short Film.

The actress shared three different stories, one each for Anasuya, Payal, and Chidananda.

Lauding Anasuya, Priyanka wrote, "Congratulations @cup_o_t on your incredible performance and the history you've created! Onwards and upwards."

For Payal, she wrote that it was a moment for Indian cinema at the Cannes Film Festival.

The actress wrote: “Biiiig shout and congratulations to you all #PayalKapadia @kantari kanmani @divya prabha @chhaya.kadam.75 @hridhuharoon."

Priyanka wrote for Chidananda, "Congratulations @ chidananda_s_naik So well deserved." India had one of its best years at the Cannes Film Festival this time. Payal’s film was screened at the Palme d'Or (main segment) of the Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first Indian film in 30 years to compete in the main segment after ‘Swaham’, which was released in 1994.

Deepika tops IMDb’s 100 Most Viewed Indian Stars, SRK in second place

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone, who will be soon seen in ‘Singham Again’ and ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ has topped the IMDb list of Top 100 Most Viewed Indian Stars of the Last Decade. Following her is the actor opposite whom she made her debut with ‘Om Shanti Om’, Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan.

This list of all top Indian stars is determined by the actual page views of the more than 250 million monthly visitors to IMDb worldwide.

Reacting to the news, Deepika said: “I’m deeply grateful to be included in a list that captures the sentiment of a global audience. IMDb stands as a beacon of credibility, reflecting the true pulse of people's passion, interests and preferences.”

She further mentioned: “This recognition is truly humbling and inspires me to continue connecting with and reciprocating the love I receive from audiences, both on and off the screen with authenticity and purpose.”

Third spot on the list is occupied by actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who recently walked the red carpet at the 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival. Alia Bhatt is on the fourth spot followed by the late actor Irrfan Khan.

Aamir Khan and Salman Khan, too find a place in the top 10. While Aamir is at number six, Salman holds the eighth spot, separated by the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput at number seven.

The list also includes Hrithik Roshan, Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Amitabh Bachchan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Kareena Kapoor, Nayanthara, Ajay Devgn, Triptii Dimri and others.

The list has actors from the Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada film industries. Kamal Haasan, at Number 54, has the longest film career in the list with his debut as a child actor in 1960.

The Top 100 Most Viewed Indian Stars of the Last Decade on IMDb list is based on the IMDb weekly rankings from January 2014 through April 2024.

Buyers L ike What They See at Brookwater.

Your minute neighb ourhood:

Just 35 minutes away from Brisbane CBD, the interest among buyers has been at a record level, according to Narendran Sinnathamby, the General Manager of Brookwater Residential. Brookwater ’ s current land release, The Dress Circle, is situated around the first nine holes of the championship golf course designed by Greg Norman. It is the only integrated golf community near Brisbane. “Discerning buyers are recognising that Brookwater is a premium lifestyle destination,’’Mr Sinnathamby said.

“ The Dress Circle, Brookwater is situated within Springfield City, one of Australia’s fastestgrowing regions. Springfield City sets the standard for world-class master-planned urban environments in the 21st centur y and has become a blueprint for nation-building,” he added.

“ The area boasts outstanding schools, and state-of-the-ar t health facilities, and is now home to the Brisbane Lions AFL Club Ever y thing you need is within reach ”

Within the Springfield City area, there are 12 schools, 22 childcare facilities, and the University of Southern Queensland providing a remarkable array of options for both private and public amenities, making it an ideal choice for growing families.

Springfield City is positioned as the gateway to the western corridor of Southeast Queensland. With an expansive area of 2,860 hectares, it is Australia’s largest master-planned city and the first of its kind since Canberra.

*

SOURCE: ECONISIS

- The wider Springfield Grow th Corridor including Springfield and Greater Springfield is currently home to 145,300 people.

- This is expected to grow rapidly to almost 200,000 people in 2026 and over 435,000 in 2041.

- Represents an annual grow th rate of 5.6% over the 20 years to 2041.

Prep to Year 12 Christian co-education.

Health City Springfield Central – home to Mater Private Hospital Springfield, Aveo Springfield and Quest Apar tment Hotel. major retail shops, restaurants, a movie theatre and food court.

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